CAT 2021 Slot 2 VARC Comprehensive Preparation Guide

Introduction

The Common Admission Test (CAT), conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), is one of the most competitive entrance exams for admission to prestigious MBA programs in India. The Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) section of CAT is critical in determining the overall score. This article provides a comprehensive guide to help candidates prepare effectively for the CAT 2021 Slot 2 VARC section.

Section Overview

The VARC section consists of 34 questions divided into three types:

• Reading Comprehension (RC): 24 questions testing comprehension and analysis of text passages.
• Verbal Ability (VA): 10 questions assessing vocabulary, grammar, and sentence correction.

Question Pattern

Reading Comprehension (RC):

• Number of passages: 4
• Length of passages: 400-600 words each
• Questions per passage: 6

Verbal Ability (VA):

• Vocabulary: 5 questions
• Grammar: 3 questions
• Sentence Correction: 2 questions

Time Allocation

The time allotted for the VARC section is 60 minutes. It is recommended to allocate time judiciously:

• RC: 45 minutes (10-12 minutes per passage)
• VA: 15 minutes (3 minutes per question)

Preparation Strategy

1. Develop a Strong Reading Habit

• Read diverse materials from various sources to improve reading speed and comprehension.
• Practice active reading by highlighting, annotating, and summarizing texts.

2. Build Vocabulary

• Study word lists from reliable sources and learn synonyms, antonyms, and contextual usage.
• Use flashcards, apps, or online tools to memorize new words.

3. Master Grammar

• Review basic grammar rules and common errors.
• Practice identifying subject-verb agreement, verb tense, and sentence structure.

4. Enhance Critical Thinking

• Analyze text passages for main ideas, supporting evidence, and author's perspective.
• Practice drawing inferences and making logical deductions.

5. Timed Practice

• Take mock tests to simulate the actual exam conditions.
• Monitor your time and improve your speed and accuracy.

Tips and Tricks

• Skimming and Scanning: Quickly preview passages to identify key points and vocabulary.
• Contextual Clues: Use hints within the passage to determine word meanings.
• Elimination: Eliminate incorrect answer choices to narrow down the options.
• Guessing: If unsure, make an educated guess based on logic and prior knowledge.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Misreading Passages: Pay close attention to details and avoid skimming too quickly.
• Confusing Synonyms: Ensure that you understand the precise meanings of words.
• Inadequate Time Management: Allocate time wisely and avoid spending too much time on any one question.
• Lack of Confidence: Believe in your abilities and don't let fear hinder your performance.

Why VARC Matters

The VARC section plays a significant role in CAT preparation because:

• It tests essential communication skills required for management roles.
• It contributes to the overall scaled score and can enhance your chances of admission.
• It provides insights into your analytical and critical thinking abilities.

Benefits of Strong VARC Skills

• Improved reading comprehension for business cases and presentations.
• Enhanced vocabulary for better communication and leadership.
• Stronger writing skills for business reports and proposals.
• Improved problem-solving abilities through critical analysis.

FAQs

1. How many questions are there in the VARC section? - 34
2. How much time is allotted for VARC? - 60 minutes
3. What is the difficulty level of VARC? - Moderate to difficult
4. How do I improve my reading comprehension? - Practice active reading and diverse reading.
5. Which topics are covered in Verbal Ability? - Vocabulary, grammar, and sentence correction
6. Can I overcome a weak VARC section? - Yes, with consistent preparation and practice.
7. Is there a penalty for incorrect answers in VARC? - No
8. How can I prepare for the VARC section effectively? - Follow the preparation strategy and tips outlined in this guide.

Table 1: CAT 2020 VARC Performance Trends

Table 2: Topic Distribution in RC Passages (CAT 2020)

Table 3: Tips for Time Management in VARC