How To Improve VARC For CAT- Best Books, Main Issues, Ways To Improve

Did you know that VARC (Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension) in CAT 2019 turned out to be the most difficult amongst all the sections? The reading comprehensions were quite long and quite tough to understand. A student needs to be well prepared before attempting the VARC for CAT to get a good score and secure a seat in IIM. For some, the VARC section could be a cakewalk, however, for others, this section can be quite tough. Read on to understand how you can work on improving your VARC.

What Is VARC for CAT?

VARC stands for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension. Verbal ability is about checking one’s knowledge of vocabulary, grammar, and so on while Reading Comprehension checks one’s understanding of a specific topic. The VARC for CAT section is in fact the toughest amongst all the MBA entrance exams in India. This is generally considered difficult as the Reading Comprehension passages of the CAT exam are based on one’s interpretation, unlike IIFT or XAT where the reading passages are based on facts. 

How Can One Prepare For VARC For CAT

The biggest worry for most MBA aspirants during the time of VARC preparation for CAT is how to manage the Reading Comprehension. It is quite tough to master and develop the skill of reading in just six months. Thus, individuals who are accustomed to reading, definitely have a better chance to manage the RC preparation without much of a hassle.

The VARC section of CAT has evolved over the years from being a plain English language test to an English usage test. Previously, the vocabulary and grammar questions were quite simple and straightforward. Either one knew the answer or not. However, with time, it has been observed that the focus of this test has shifted from testing an individual’s English knowledge to the relative understanding of English as a language on the whole. At present, candidates are tested on their understanding of the following:

• The complete understanding and nuances of a given word
• The context and usage of a given word.
• Correct structure, syntax, and construction of sentences.
• Identification of the intricate ideas present in a paragraph

The VARC preparation for CAT needs focus, time, discipline, and dedication. The most critical part of VARC preparation is improving one’s English comprehension skills and building vocabulary. This can be accomplished only by making reading a habit. The Verbal Ability questions can be answered by ample practice of mock tests and sample questions.

Best Books For VARC Preparation For CAT

Following is a list of some of the most recommended books while preparing for VARC:

• How To Prepare for Verbal Ability And Reading Comprehension For CAT by Meenakshi Upadhyay and Arun Sharma.
• Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis.
• High School Grammar and Composition by Wren and Martin
• The Pearson Guide to Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning for the CAT by Nishit Sinha
• The Pearson Guide to Verbal Ability for the CAT and Other MBA Entrance Examinations by Sujit Kumar

Also, do note that the best way to improve reading comprehension skills is by reading English novels, current and business affairs magazines, newspaper editorials, biographies, science journals, and so on.

Main Issues One Faces With VARC For CAT

Let us try and understand the main problems that a candidate may face with respect to the VARC section:

• Trouble while trying to focus on the RCs.
• Most answers that a candidate may assume to be correct end up being wrong. 
• Confusion about trying to attempt the question or leaving the question if a candidate has removed two options.
• Failure to link or connect various sentences in the VA section.
• Managing the time to attempt all the questions. For example, a candidate may read the RC but may not be able to answer the questions owing to time constraints.

Ways To Improve VARC For CAT

Following are a few pointers that can help with the VARC preparation for CAT: 

• Take some time to analyze the paper and prepare a strategy on how to attempt the section.
• Never Stick To A Question for Too Long!!! This mistake and can in fact cost you a lot of marks. Do try to increase the number of your attempts. An accuracy of 90-100% is tough to achieve; thus, one can improve the overall score by increasing the number of attempts.
• If you feel that you are not able to concentrate while reading RCs, then try to change your approach towards that particular section. For example, try attempting one RC and then attempt a few questions of VA and then come back to RC and so on. In this manner, you will not lose focus.
• Concentrate on what the author wants to convey and not what you interpret. Keep attempting mock tests and analyze your answers. This will help you prepare a strategy for the VARC in advance.
• Keep attempting mock tests regularly, this is the one-stop answer for how to improve VARC for CAT. 

Conclusion

In the end, it all boils down to how much you have practiced. Remember VARC for CAT is not that tough, all you need is ample practice.

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