Can High RC Accuracy Score Well in VARC for the CAT 2017 Exam?
When preparing for the Verbal and Reading Comprehension (VARC) section of the CAT 2017, students often wonder whether a strong focus on Reading Comprehension (RC) can lead to high scores, even if they struggle with Verbal Ability (VA). This article explores the relationship between RC accuracy and overall performance in the VARC section, drawing insights from personal experiences and strategies.
Understanding the VARC Section
The VARC section in the CAT 2017 consists of 34 questions, distributed mostly between RC and VA. Typically, out of these, around 22 to 24 questions come from RC, with a consistent 24 RC questions being present in past years. This section evaluates candidates' ability to understand, interpret, and analyze both verbal and non-verbal information.
Boosting RC Accuracy
One strategy for excelling in VARC is to focus heavily on RC accuracy. For instance, if a candidate aims for 90% accuracy, they can expect to answer 21 out of 24 questions correctly. Considering the typical negative marking of -1 for each incorrect answer, this translates to a net score of 60, which corresponds to an early 98 percentile.
For example, a candidate with 97.94 percentile in VA (which is mentioned as the author's score, but attributed to VA) in prior mocks, and with a consistent 95 percentile in VA, managed to achieve this by attempting RC questions and capitalizing on easy verbal questions. Despite not giving verbal preparation a priority, the RC section played a crucial role in achieving a consistent high score.
Balance and Flexibility
However, it is essential to balance RC attempts with other sections. One must also be flexible and prepared for unexpected question patterns. While RC can be a key factor, the VARC section includes VA questions, some of which might be easier and contribute to a high overall score. Hence, a balanced approach is crucial.
The author's personal experience demonstrates a 90% accuracy in RC leading to a score of 60, which is well above the 95 percentile threshold. This shows that with the right strategy and high accuracy, it is indeed possible to achieve a high score in VARC.
Adapting to Unpredictability
CAT is known for its unpredictability. Candidates should be prepared for varied question patterns. While a strong RC section can be advantageous, it is wise to have a strategy based on your strengths and be flexible. Sometimes, RC sections can be harder, while VA questions can be easier. Being adaptable and having a plan B and C can significantly enhance your performance.
Improving comprehension skills forms the foundation for high performance in VARC. Strong comprehension skills not only make RC questions easier but also improve performance in logical reasoning and para-jumbles. The ability to quickly understand and interpret information is crucial for success in this section.
In conclusion, while a high RC accuracy rate can certainly help in scoring well in the VARC section of the CAT 2017, it is essential to balance this with preparation for other sections. Flexibility and adaptability are key to achieving a high percentile score in this competitive exam.