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CAT 2023 Verbal Ability Preparation: Pattern, Strategies and Tips

authorImageAnil Solonki21 Aug, 2023
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CAT 2023 Verbal Ability Preparation: Pattern, Strategies and Tips

CAT Verbal Ability preparation is not just about achieving a high percentile, it's about equipping yourself with the skills necessary to thrive in the business world, where effective communication and critical thinking are paramount. Discover CAT Verbal Ability preparation strategies, tips and patterns.

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a highly competitive examination that opens the gateway to India's top-notch business schools. Among its various sections, the Verbal Ability segment holds a significant position. Acing the CAT Verbal Ability section is essential not only for securing a high percentile but also for displaying a comprehensive understanding of the English language and critical reasoning skills. As CAT 2023 approaches, effective CAT Verbal Ability preparation becomes paramount for aspirants aiming to stand out in this fiercely competitive landscape. This article serves as your comprehensive guide to excel in the CAT Verbal Ability section, providing invaluable insights, strategies, and tips to enhance your CAT 2023 preparation journey.

CAT Verbal Ability Preparation: Overview

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a highly competitive examination that opens the gateway to India's top-notch business schools. Among its various sections, the Verbal Ability segment holds a significant position. Acing the CAT Verbal Ability section is essential not only for securing a high percentile but also for displaying a comprehensive understanding of the English language and critical reasoning skills. As CAT 2023 approaches, effective CAT Verbal Ability preparation becomes paramount for aspirants aiming to stand out in this fiercely competitive landscape. This article serves as your comprehensive guide to excel in the CAT Verbal Ability section, providing invaluable insights, strategies, and tips to enhance your CAT 2023 preparation journey.

Understanding CAT 2023 Exam and Verbal Ability Section

The CAT 2023 Exam: An Overview CAT, short for Common Admission Test, is the premier examination for admission into India's most esteemed management institutes. Conducted annually by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), the CAT exam assesses candidates in various sections, including Quantitative Ability, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, and Verbal Ability. CAT 2023 is slated to be a rigorous evaluation of candidates' aptitude, logical reasoning, and language proficiency. Here's a glimpse of the CAT Verbal Ability question pattern and other relevant points as per CAT 2023 listed below:
Verbal Ability Questions in CAT Number of questions Type of Questions
Para Summary 2-3 Mix of Non MCQ/MCQ
Jumbled Paragraph 2-3 No Negative Marking, Non-MCQ
Picking the Odd sentence out of Jumbled Paragraph 1-2 Mix of MCQ/Non-MCQ with Negative or No Negative Marking
Para completion 1-2 No Negative Marking
The Significance of CAT Verbal Ability Preparation Among the sections of the CAT exam, the Verbal Ability segment evaluates candidates' command over the English language, reading comprehension skills, and critical thinking abilities. Scoring well in this section not only boosts your overall percentile but also showcases your ability to comprehend complex texts and draw reasoned conclusions—an essential skill for future managers and leaders.

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension Questions: Section Composition

Before delving into the details of how to prepare for the Verbal Ability section of CAT, understanding its composition, and knowing the types of questions in this section is crucial. The Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension section has been a significant part of the CAT exam since the pattern was revamped by IIM Ahmedabad in 2015. This section now holds the first spot in the exam's revised order of sections. Referred to as the Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension section, it includes questions on Verbal Ability that have maintained a consistent pattern over the years. The structure and content of the Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension section in CAT 2023 are expected to be similar to those of the previous year.
CAT Verbal Ability Questions Composition Verbal Ability Reading Comprehension pattern
Section Name Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
Total VARC Questions 24
Total Verbal Ability Questions 6-8
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension Time to attempt the section 40 Minutes
Marks for Each Correct Answer +3
Negative Marks for Each Wrong Answer -1
Difficulty Level of Verbal Ability Questions Moderate to High
No Negative Marking Questions in CAT Verbal Ability section 6-8 (Most of the Verbal Ability questions in CAT are Non-MCQs and they do not carry any penalty of negative marking)

Verbal Ability Syllabus for CAT

The CAT Verbal Ability syllabus has changed in the last 4-5 years. If you keep studying based on the old syllabus, your score in the CAT 2023 Verbal Ability section might be quite low. While it's still important to grasp grammar, improve your vocabulary, and enhance your English language skills for Verbal Ability preparation, the particular subjects and themes that questions come from in the CAT Verbal Ability section have shifted recently. While some old topics could come up again, it's crucial to focus on the following areas according to the updated syllabus:
Topics Covered in Verbal Ability Syllabus for CAT Expected number of questions Key features
Jumbled Paragraphs 2-3 5 Jumbled sentences to be arranged in a coherent manner to bring meaningful result
Summary/Inference of short paragraph 2-3 Small para of 4-5 sentences followed by 4 answer options
Picking the Out of Context sentence in a Jumbled Paragraph 1-2 5 Jumbled Sentences out of which one odd sentence to be picked out
Para completion by filling in a sentence 2-3 A small para of 3-4 sentences with a blank space asking to choose a sentence from the given 4 choices

Effective Strategies for CAT Verbal Ability Preparation

  • Build Strong Vocabulary
Enhance your language prowess by consistently learning and practicing new words. Utilize flashcards, vocabulary-building apps, and engage in regular reading of diverse materials to expand your lexical range.
  • Focus on Reading Comprehension
Devote ample time to reading newspapers, magazines, and academic articles. This practice will not only enhance your reading speed but also improve your ability to grasp the essence of passages quickly.
  • Grammar and Language Rules
Brush up on essential grammar rules, syntax, and language usage. A strong foundation in grammar will not only improve your sentence correction skills but also help you tackle questions related to sentence formation.
  • Solve Past Papers and Mock Tests
Engage in regular practice by solving CAT Verbal Ability section questions from previous years and taking full-length mock tests. This will help you familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and develop effective time management strategies.

Prime Tips for CAT 2023 Verbal Ability Preparation

  1. Time Management is Key During the CAT exam, time is of the essence. Allocate specific time slots for each question and avoid spending too much time on a single question. If you get stuck, move on and return to the question later.
  2. Analyze and Learn from Mistakes After solving mock tests or practice papers, thoroughly analyze the answers. Understand the concepts you missed and learn from your mistakes to avoid repeating them in the future.
  3. Stay Updated with Current Affairs CAT Verbal Ability section often includes questions related to current affairs, politics, and social issues. Stay updated with recent events to effectively address these types of questions.
In the realm of CAT 2023 preparation, excelling in the Verbal Ability section can be a game-changer. The ability to comprehend complex passages, critically analyze arguments, and communicate effectively is not only integral for performing well in the CAT exam but also for succeeding in a management career. By following the strategies and tips outlined in this article, you can embark on a focused and result-oriented CAT Verbal Ability preparation journey. Remember, consistent practice, dedication, and a strategic approach will undoubtedly pave the way for a remarkable performance in the CAT 2023 Exam.

CAT Verbal Ability Preparation FAQs

Q1. What is the weightage of the Verbal Ability section in the CAT 2023 exam? Answer: The Verbal Ability section typically holds around one-third of the total CAT exam paper's weightage. Q2. How can I improve my reading comprehension skills for CAT Verbal Ability? Answer: To enhance reading comprehension, practice regular reading of diverse materials like newspapers, magazines, and academic articles. Focus on understanding the main idea, supporting details, and drawing inferences. Q3. Are vocabulary-building apps effective for CAT Verbal Ability preparation? Answer: Yes, vocabulary-building apps can be quite effective. They help you learn new words in an interactive manner, expanding your word bank and aiding in understanding complex texts. Q4. Can I use elimination techniques for sentence correction questions in CAT Verbal Ability? Answer: Absolutely. Applying elimination techniques can narrow down choices, making it easier to identify the correct option by spotting grammatical errors or awkward phrasing. Q5. How many mock tests should I take for CAT Verbal Ability preparation? Answer: It's recommended to take at least 15-20 full-length mock tests before the CAT exam. Mock tests help you get accustomed to the exam pattern, improve time management, and identify areas that need further attention.

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