How to Tackle Reading Comprehension for CAT | 100 RCs for Practice PDF Download

Introduction

Reading Comprehension (RC) is one of the most crucial and challenging sections in the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025 and other similar exams. It makes up a large portion of the Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) section and tests your ability to quickly grasp, analyze, and interpret complex texts. Many aspirants struggle with RC due to time constraints, tricky questions, and dense passages. However, with the right strategy and consistent practice, you can improve accuracy, manage time effectively, and boost your overall score.

In this guide, we will break down proven techniques to tackle RC efficiently, covering:

• How to read actively and identify key ideas
• Time management tips for reading and answering questions
• Strategies to handle different question types
• Recommended practice resources to sharpen your skills

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Building a Strong Foundation

Understand the Structure

• Before diving into preparation, familiarize yourself with the RC section's structure. 
• It typically includes passages from various genres followed by a set of questions that test comprehension, interpretation, and vocabulary.

Develop a Reading Habit

• Consistent Practice: Start with reading articles, journals, and books daily. This will not only improve your reading speed but also enhance your comprehension skills.
• Diverse Genres: Don't limit yourself to a single subject. Read across genres including fiction, non-fiction, science, humanities, and current affairs to build versatility.

Enhance Reading Speed

• Timed Reading Sessions: Practice reading with a timer. Gradually reduce the time you take to read a passage while maintaining comprehension.
• Skimming and Scanning: Learn to skim for the main idea and scan for specific information. This technique is crucial for managing time during the exam.

Vocabulary Building

• Word Lists: Create a list of new words you encounter and review them regularly.
• Contextual Learning: Understand how words are used in different contexts, which is more effective than rote memorization.

Mastering Comprehension and Analysis

Comprehension Skills

• Main Idea Identification: Focus on grasping the central theme of the passage. This will guide you in answering most of the questions.
• Inference Making: Practice drawing inferences from the text. This skill is vital for questions that aren't directly stated in the passage.

Critical Analysis

• Argument Strength: Analyze the strength of arguments by evaluating evidence and identifying assumptions.
• Tone and Style: Pay attention to the author's tone and writing style, as it often influences the meaning of the text.

Effective Strategies for Solving RC Questions

Answering Strategies

• Question First Approach: Read the questions before the passage to know what to look for.
• Elimination Technique: Use the process of elimination to narrow down choices, especially when you're unsure of the correct answer.

Time Management

• Allocate Wisely: Decide how much time to spend on each passage and stick to it.
• Balance Speed and Accuracy: Work on finding the right balance between reading quickly and understanding the passage thoroughly.

Practice and Continuous Improvement

Practice with Mock Tests

• Regular Mocks: Take regular mock tests to simulate exam conditions and track your progress.
• Analyze Performance: Review your answers to understand your mistakes and avoid them in the future.

Stay Updated

• Current Affairs: Stay updated with the latest news and scholarly articles, as they often form the basis of RC passages.
• Exam Trends: Keep an eye on the previous years' CAT papers to understand the trends and types of passages that are commonly included.

Mental Preparation for Exam Day

Mental Preparation

• Stress Management: Develop techniques to manage exam stress, such as deep breathing or meditation.
• Confidence Building: Build confidence by regularly practising and improving your skills.

Tackling the RC section for CAT ​2025 requires a blend of strategic preparation and mental readiness. By following these pointers, you can enhance your reading, comprehension, and analytical skills, which are essential for acing the RC section.

Remember, consistent practice and a positive mindset are your best tools for success.