CAT English preparation is one of those vast topics that seem easy and difficult all at the same time. Why is that? Well, one simple answer is that there is no prescribed syllabus for it. So, when you think of studying for the English section of CAT, there is an all-or-nothing list that comes up. But, we’re here to tell you that even without a formal CAT English syllabus, you can work on the section and enhance your overall English skills over time and ace your CAT VARC preparation.
In this essay, we will discuss three highlights of preparing for English sections in CAT and similar tests. This is an ongoing series in which we discuss tackling various sections of CAT and similar tests, so stick around and keep checking back in!
How to Develop Reading Habits for CAT English preparation?
Increasing your reading habits can be a fulfilling and enriching endeavour. Here are some tips to help you develop and maintain a regular reading habit
Set Specific Goals: Determine how much time you want to dedicate to reading each day or week. Start with achievable goals and gradually increase them as you become more comfortable.
Create a Reading Schedule: Incorporate reading into your daily or weekly routine. Choose a consistent time, such as before bed or during your lunch break, to establish a habit.
Choose Interesting Material: Pick books, articles, or genres that genuinely interest you. When you enjoy what you’re reading, you’re more likely to stay engaged and motivated.
Eliminate Distractions: Find a quiet, comfortable space where you can focus solely on reading. Minimise distractions like electronic devices or background noise.
Carry a Book: Keep a book with you wherever you go. Utilise downtime during commutes, waiting in line, or during breaks to sneak in some reading.
Join a Book Club: Engaging with others who share your interest in reading can provide accountability and motivation. Book clubs also offer opportunities for discussion and discovering new perspectives.
Utilise Technology: Consider using e-readers or audiobooks for added convenience. They allow you to access a vast library of content anytime, anywhere.
Mix It Up: Don’t limit yourself to one type of reading material. Experiment with different genres, authors, and formats to keep things fresh and prevent boredom.
Reward Yourself: Set up a reward system for reaching reading milestones or completing a certain number of books. Treat yourself to something enjoyable as a way to celebrate your progress.
Track Your Progress: Keep a reading log or use apps to track the books you’ve read and your reading goals. Seeing your progress can be motivating and help you stay committed.
Remember, developing a reading habit takes time and patience. Be kind to yourself and enjoy the journey of discovering new worlds through books.
Strategising How To Attempt The CAT VARC Section
Studying critical reasoning for the CAT requires a strategic approach to develop the necessary skills and techniques to tackle specifically the CAT English questions effectively.
Preparing for the verbal reasoning section of the CAT requires a structured approach and focused practice. Here’s a guide to help you study effectively for CAT verbal reasoning questions:
Understand the CAT Exam Pattern: Familiarise yourself with the exam format, including the number of verbal reasoning questions, types of questions, and allotted time. This will help you plan your study strategy accordingly.
Identify Question Types: Verbal reasoning questions on the CAT may include reading comprehension, critical reasoning, vocabulary-based questions, and grammar-based questions. Understand the characteristics and strategies for each question type.
Brush Up on Basic English Skills: Review fundamental concepts of English grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension. Strengthen your understanding of sentence structure, parts of speech, idioms, synonyms, antonyms, and word usage.
Read Regularly: Cultivate a habit of regular reading to improve your comprehension skills and vocabulary. Read a variety of texts, including newspapers, magazines, novels, and online articles. Pay attention to the author’s tone, argument structure, and main ideas.
Practice Reading Comprehension: Practise reading comprehension passages from a variety of sources and answer related questions. Focus on understanding the main idea, identifying supporting details, and recognizing the author’s tone and purpose.
Develop Critical Reasoning Skills: Practise analysing and evaluating arguments in critical reasoning questions. Learn to identify assumptions, strengthen/weaken arguments, draw logical conclusions, and detect flaws in reasoning.
Expand Your Vocabulary: Work on expanding your vocabulary by learning new words and their meanings. Use flashcards, vocabulary lists, and contextual learning techniques to reinforce your understanding of unfamiliar words.
Practise Mock Tests: Take regular mock tests to simulate the CAT exam environment and assess your progress. Analyse your performance, identify areas of weakness, and focus on improving your speed and accuracy.
Time Management: Develop effective time management strategies to allocate sufficient time to each verbal reasoning question. Practice pacing yourself to ensure you complete the section within the allotted time frame.
Review and Analyze: Review your performance on practice tests and analyse your mistakes. Understand why certain answers were incorrect and identify any patterns or recurring issues. Adjust your study plan accordingly to address areas of weakness.
Seek Guidance: Consider seeking guidance from CAT preparation experts, tutors, or study groups. They can provide valuable insights, strategies, and feedback to help you improve your verbal reasoning skills.
Consistent practice, focused preparation, and strategic study techniques are essential for success in the verbal reasoning section of the CAT exam. By following these tips and dedicating sufficient time to preparation, you can enhance your performance and maximise your chances of achieving a high score.
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