Mnemonics & Strategies: Odd Sentence Out | Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) - CAT PDF Download

Introduction

In this question type, you're given 4–5 jumbled sentences. While most form a coherent paragraph, one doesn't fit—your task is to find and eliminate that Odd One Out.

Core Mnemonics to Crack It

1. TOPIC Test → “TOE” Mnemonic

Check if all sentences revolve around the same Topic, Object, or Emotion. If one sentence doesn’t match even one toe in this, it’s probably out of step.

• T – Topic mismatch: Does this talk about something entirely different?

• O – Object focus shift: Is the object/subject of action inconsistent?

• E – Emotion/tone mismatch: Is the tone too casual, dramatic, or technical compared to others?

Use: If the sentence is not “putting its TOE in the same stream,” it doesn’t belong.

2. COIN Test → Connectors, Order, Ideas, Naming

This helps identify logical and grammatical links:

• C – Connectors: Words like “however,” “moreover,” “thus” require logical buildup.

• O – Order disruption: Does this sentence break the natural flow of idea development?

• I – Idea mismatch: Is the central idea or theme unrelated?

• N – Naming confusion: Does it refer to something (a person, event, theory) not introduced?

Use: Like a COIN tossed in the air, does the sentence land right in the theme? If not—it’s fake currency.

3. PRISM Test → Filters for Logical Fit

Just as a prism breaks light into components, this mnemonic filters sentence flow:

• P – Pronouns: Are “he,” “it,” or “this” referring back clearly?

• R – Repetition or Reference: Is the sentence repeating something or introducing a disjointed reference?

• I – Introductory or Isolated: Is this trying to start a new idea while others continue one?

• S – Support Check: Does it support a claim already made, or does it float alone?

• M – Mismatch in detail or scale: Too specific? Too general? Doesn’t match the rest?

4. ICE Rule – Identify, Connect, Eliminate

• I – Identify the core idea of the majority

• C – Connect supporting sentences around it

• E – Eliminate the one that floats away

Mnemonics for Specific Traps

THEY Trap (Pronoun Pitfall)

Whenever you see they, it, these, such, ask:

• Who are they?

• What is it?

• If there’s no clear link, odds are high it’s an odd one out.

VIRUS Trap (Disruptor Sentence)

Odd sentences often behave like a VIRUS in a healthy paragraph.

• V – Vague idea

• I – Introduces a new subject

• R – Reverses the flow (e.g., contradicts)

• U – Unnecessary detail

• S – Stands alone

If a sentence carries this viral behaviour, isolate and eject.

Example Using PRISM & TOE

Sentences:

A. Meditation is known to improve mental well-being and focus.
B. Many students report better memory after a few weeks of mindfulness practice.
C. Yoga involves physical postures and breathing techniques.
D. Research suggests meditation alters brain structure.
E. Mindfulness helps reduce stress and anxiety levels.

Analysis:

• A, B, D, and E are all about meditation/mindfulness.

• C introduces Yoga, which is related but a different concept.

Using PRISM:

• P (Pronouns): No confusion

• R (Reference): “Yoga” is a new reference

• I (Introductory): Yes, “Yoga involves…” feels like a new topic

• S (Support): Doesn’t support any earlier sentence

• M (Mismatch): Yes, detail is physical, while others are mental

Answer: C is the odd sentence out.

Final Takeaway