How to Excel in VARC for the CAT in 80 Days: A Comprehensive Strategy
Improving your score in the VARC (Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension) section of the CAT (Common Admission Test) can significantly enhance your overall performance. With only 80 days left, here’s a focused strategy to maximize your preparation:
1. Assess Your Current Level
Take a Diagnostic Test
Start with a mock test to identify your strengths and weaknesses in VARC. This will help you understand the areas that require more focus.
Analyze Results
Look at the types of questions you struggled with. Are they reading comprehension, verbal ability, or a mix of both? Understanding your weak points is crucial for targeted improvement.
2. Reading Practice
Daily Reading
Read articles from diverse sources such as newspapers, journals, fiction, and non-fiction to improve comprehension and vocabulary.
Summarization
After reading, summarize the articles in your own words. This will help you retain information and improve your understanding.
3. Structured Study Plan
Weekly Goals
Set specific goals for each week:
Week 1-2: Focus on reading comprehension. Practice passages and answer related questions. Week 3-4: Work on verbal ability topics like grammar, vocabulary, and sentence correction. Week 5-6: Combine both sections and start taking timed practice tests.Daily Practice
Dedicate at least 1-2 hours daily solely to VARC.
4. Practice Mock Tests
Regular Mock Tests
Take at least one full-length mock test every week. Analyze your performance to identify areas needing improvement.
Time Management
Practice managing your time effectively during these tests as the CAT has a strict time limit.
5. Review and Revise
Error Analysis
After each practice test, review the questions you got wrong. Understand why you made those mistakes.
Revise Key Concepts
Regularly revise important concepts in grammar and vocabulary.
6. Focus on Vocabulary
Daily Vocabulary
Learn and revise new words daily. Use flashcards or apps for retention.
Contextual Understanding
Practice using new words in sentences to better understand their meanings.
7. Join Study Groups or Forums
Peer Learning
Join online or offline study groups where you can discuss strategies, share resources, and clarify doubts.
Discussion
Engage in discussions about passages or grammar rules to reinforce learning.
8. Stay Consistent and Motivated
Consistency
Stick to your study schedule. Consistent effort will yield better results than cramming.
Stay Positive
Maintain a positive mindset and remind yourself of your goals.
9. Health and Well-being
Balanced Lifestyle
Ensure you’re getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking breaks to avoid burnout.
Stress Management
Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation or exercise to manage stress.
Sample Weekly Plan
Week Focus Area Activities Week 1 Reading Comprehension Read 2-3 passages daily and summarize Week 2 Vocabulary Building Learn 10 new words daily and use them Week 3 Verbal Ability Practice grammar exercises and quizzes Week 4 Mixed Practice Take a mock test and analyze performance Week 5 Timed Practice Full-length mock tests every 3 days Week 6 Revision and Error Analysis Review mistakes and revise weak areasBy following this structured approach, you can significantly enhance your VARC score in the CAT. Good luck with your preparation!