How to Improve VARC for CAT Exam 2026 [Step-by-Step Guide]

Overview: Preparing for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) for CAT becomes a little challenging, looking at the level of questions asked in the exam. You can significantly ace the VARC section given the right strategy. In this blog we will see how to improve VARC for CAT. Stay right here with us!

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• As you begin your CAT exam preparation, you may be wondering, "How to improve VARC Section for CAT Exam?"
• This typical question marks the beginning of a significant journey, and you've arrived at the appropriate destination.

However, one of the most common challenges students face is how to improve VARC for CAT, how to improve varc score in CAT 2026, Unlike Quant, where formulas and shortcuts play a central role, VARC demands consistent practice, habit-building, and the right strategies. In this detailed guide, we will explore practical tips, techniques, and resources that will help you master VARC effectively.

What is VARC in CAT 2026?

VARC stands for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension. It is one of the three core sections of the CAT (Common Admission Test) exam, alongside Quantitative Aptitude (QA) and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR).

The VARC section evaluates a candidate’s proficiency in:

• Understanding written texts
• Drawing logical inferences
• Grasping vocabulary in context

Get Complete VARC Syllabus for CAT – Free PDF Download

How to Improve VARC for CAT 2026: Common Misconceptions and Myths

Many believe vocabulary is the secret to VARC success. Actually, it's often overrated for CAT. Reading novels for vocabulary building isn’t the best use of time. Instead, understanding how to grasp the essence of passages matters more.

Another myth: grammar knowledge alone can get you through. While grammar helps with sentence correction, comprehension and inference skills carry much more weight in CAT.

Also Check: 

1. How to Prepare for CAT 2026 at Home? Know Here!
2. CAT 2026 Preparation Tips for Beginners

How to Improve VARC for CAT 2026: Weekly Plan

Here is a sample weekly plan to help you stay consistent:

Day	Task
Monday	Read one editorial + 2 RC passages
Tuesday	Practice parajumbles and odd sentence out
Wednesday	Attempt a sectional VARC test
Thursday	Read a long article + solve 3 summary questions
Friday	Vocabulary revision + grammar basics
Saturday	Practice 1 mock VARC test + analysis
Sunday	Review mistakes and revise concepts

Download Expert-Recommended Books List for CAT VARC

How to Improve VARC for CAT 2026? Step by Step Strategy

This section has questions based on Grammar, Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension, Jumbled Paragraphs, Verbal Reasoning, etc. You must go through the CAT VARC syllabus based on the questions asked in the previous year.

Unlike the other two sections in the CAT exam, Quantitative Ability (QA) and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), the questions asked in VARC do not involve logic or calculation. This makes VARC a little challenging, as the answers are based on language.

The rules of the language section are the rules without a logical or mathematical explanation. The learnings in this section are a never-ending process. The more you read English, the better you get in this section.

The Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) section of the CAT examination is extremely important, requiring a thorough understanding of reading comprehension skills.

How to Increase Accuracy in VARC in CAT 2026?

Is there any way to improve accuracy in the VARC section in the CAT exam? Well, yes, we have provided the top 10 ways to increase your accuracy and speed in the VARC section:

1. Read Every Day (Even If It’s Just 10 Minutes!)

• Develop a daily reading habit to enhance your performance in the Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) section of the CAT exam. 
• Start by reading news articles, blog posts, books, novels, short stories or magazines related to your interest. You can even start reading online journals or documentaries to improve your vocabulary.
• Some of the good sources you can try including Aeon Essays, The Guardian, The Hindu, New York Times, The Atlantic and more.
• Once you become familiar with reading articles, start by exploring diverse subjects such as science, philosophy, economics, history, politics, and the arts.
• This exposure to a wide range of topics and writing styles will not only enrich your vocabulary and knowledge base but also enhance your ability to comprehend complex passages and arguments.

2. Focus on Understanding, Not Just Reading

The next master tip on how to increase accuracy in VARC in CAT is to focus on understanding rather than just reading.

Many students rush through passages without truly understanding them. Slow down, grasp the main idea, and try summarising the content in your own words.

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3. Improve Your Vocabulary the Fun Way

Instead of cramming word lists, learn new words naturally. Read books, watch movies with subtitles, and use apps like Anki or Quizlet. 

The more words you know, the easier it will be to understand RC passages.

4. Be Smart with Reading Comprehension (RC) Questions

To improve your accuracy in the VARC section of the CAT exam, try reading smartly. Read the first and last paragraphs carefully to get the main idea.

Spot transition words like however, thus, and on the other hand to follow the argument. Avoid overthinking, as the right answer is usually the most straightforward one.

5. Practice More Para Jumbles 

Para jumbles are tricky yet scoring. Having a good practice in solving the para jumbles can help you in the main examination.

You can try out the following tips:

• Identify the sentence that introduces the topic.
• Look for linking words like but " and, therefore, also to arrange sentences logically.
• Read aloud to check if the order makes sense.

6. Don’t Guess Blindly—It’s a Trap!

It’s very important to be vigilant while performing the VARC section of the CAT exam. Do not try to be oversmart or guess the answer blindly, as it will result in a serious mark deduction.

If you’re unsure about a question, it’s better to skip it. Remember, negative marking can reduce your overall score. Focus on accuracy rather than the number of attempts.

Download Free VARC Preparation Tips PDF by Supergrads

7. Take Timed Practice Tests

To boost your accuracy and speed in the VARC section in the CAT exam, it is equally important to give mock tests or practice tests that are monitored by the time limit.

If you fail to find such practice papers, then set a timer and practice VARC questions under exam conditions. This will improve your speed and help you manage time effectively on D-day.

8. Learn from Your Mistakes

Repeating the same mistake can never make you ace the exam; therefore, it is crucial to analyse what you are lacking or on what topics you need improvement.

After every mock test, analyse your mistakes. Understand why you got a question wrong and note the patterns in your errors. This will help you avoid repeating them.

9. Develop a Strategy That Works for You

The VARC section in the CAT exam asks about 24 questions from different topics. Therefore, it is important to have an expert strategy that works for you.

Some students read the passage first, while others check the questions first. Experiment with different approaches in practice tests and stick to the one that works best for you.

10. Stay Consistent and Keep Practicing

Lastly, do not break your practice; instead, stay consistent and take as many mocks as you can.

This will help you to know the difficulty level of the questions and the types of questions asked. Set small daily goals, like solving 5 RCs or 10 para jumbles. With consistent practice, you’ll see significant improvement.

5 Tips on How to Improve VARC for CAT 2026

Here are the important tips you can follow to improve VARC for CAT exam:

1. Read Passage by Point

• Break the passage into multiple paragraphs.
• Each paragraph should convey a different point.
• Summarize each paragraph into one-liners.
• Until June, write these one-liners down, then start doing it mentally.

2. Skimming the Text

• Convey the same meaning with fewer words.
• Focus on reading accurately, not quickly!

For Example, Nirmala Sitharaman’s fourth Budget is not a spend-and-stimulate exercise despite the fact that it has overrun the 3.3% target on fiscal deficit by as much as 0.5 percent. Nor is it a feel-good budget, even accounting for the next tax regime for personal income tax with lower rates.

Nirmala Sitharaman’s fourth Budget is not a spend-and-stimulate exercise despite the fact that it has overrun the 3.3% target on fiscal deficit by as much as 0.5 percent. Nor is it a feel-good budget, even accounting for the new tax regime for personal income tax with lower rates.

3. Do Not Memorize!

• Don't memorize facts and figures.
• Simply know where to find them.
• You can always refer back to them when needed.

4. Transition Words

• Use transition words to connect two ideas.
• They prepare the reader for what's coming next.

Example: Nirmala Sitharaman’s fourth Budget is not a spend-and-stimulate exercise despite exceeding the 3.3% fiscal deficit target by 0.5 percentage points. Moreover, it doesn’t create a feel-good effect, even with the new tax regime for personal income tax with lower rates.

Download 40+ VARC Sample Questions for CAT – Free PDF

5. Comma Effect

• Ignore unnecessary words that occur between commas, known as parenthetical expressions.

Example: "My grandmother, who was born in a small town, cannot go out of the house."

How to Improve VARC in CAT 2026: Effective Preparation Strategies for VARC

Starting Early and Focusing on RCs

The best way to excel in VARC is to focus on reading comprehension early in your prep. Why? Because mastering RCs makes answering other question types easier. They're like the foundation to building overall reading skill.

1. Building the Right Reading Habits

Switch from offline books to online reading, such as editorials and articles. Practice on devices similar to your exam setup. For example, if you'll take the test on a computer, read RCs on a laptop or tablet, not your phone. This helps you get used to scrolling and navigating passages just like in the exam.

2. Time Allocation and Practice Routine

Balance working on attempt rate with improving accuracy. Initially, aim to read as many passages as possible to raise your attempt rate. As you get comfortable, shift focus toward answering correctly. Simulate exam conditions with timed practice sessions to build confidence.

Strategies to Enhance Accuracy in VARC in CAT 2026

1. Logic of Eliminating Options

The key to accuracy is understanding why options are wrong. Instead of guessing, analyze each choice. Ask: “Does this answer fit logically with the passage?” If not, eliminate it. Over time, your ability to identify incorrect choices will sharpen.

2. Applying Comprehension Tricks

Watch for choices that exaggerate what’s in the passage. For example, if a statement says “most cities,” but the passage mentions only “a few,” reject that option. Recognizing overstated claims prevents silly mistakes.

3. First and Last Impressions

People tend to focus on the first and last paragraphs. While these are important, don’t fall for tricks. Sometimes, a question about the passage’s main idea is based on the middle section. Double-check before selecting options.

4. Fact-based vs. Inference-based Questions

Answer factual questions first—they are usually easier and quicker. Reserve inference questions for later, after you’ve read all relevant parts. It’s better to tackle simple questions early, saving mental energy for tougher ones.

5. Recognizing Author’s Mentions and Intent

Carefully check if options reflect what the passage states. Sometimes, choices match the wording but don’t answer the question. Always ask: “Does this directly address what the question asks?” This prevents choosing distractors.

6. Avoiding Assumptions and Staying Within the Passage

Never add your own knowledge to answer questions. If the passage says “a study found,” stick to what it states. If it mentions “adults are less creative,” don’t assume it applies universally. Focus solely on the information provided.

Why Accuracy Matters in VARC in CAT 2026?

VARC, or Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, is the first section of the CAT exam. It consists of 24 questions, weighing 72 marks.

Due to sectional timings, it is challenging for students to complete all the questions accurately and within the given time frame. But why does accuracy matter in the VARC section in CAT?

Accuracy in VARC is important because:

• A high accuracy rate ensures a better overall score.
• Negative marking for incorrect answers can significantly impact your percentile.
• Efficient attempts save time for other sections like DILR and QA.

Best Books for VARC CAT 2026

Leverage the strength of CAT RC preparation resources written by renowned professionals. There are various books for VARC CAT preparation which provide vital insights, complete with carefully prepared activities to hone your RC skills. 

Title	Author
How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT	Arun Sharma & Meenakshi Upadhyay
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT	Nishit K Sinha

Read More | CAT Cut Off [ Expected and Previous Years]

Reading Comprehension tips and tricks for CAT 2026

• Develop a habit of reading newspapers, novels, and editorials daily.
• Understand passage structure, identify the main idea, and recognize the author's tone.
• Improve speed and accuracy by practicing mock tests and eliminating wrong options.
• Stay calm, manage time effectively, and avoid personal bias while answering questions.

Read More: Detailed CAT 2026 Syllabus

Conclusion 

Beginning the journey on how to improve VARC for CAT exam requires commitment, constant practice, and strategic expertise.

If you are serious about scoring above the 90th percentile, you must develop a strategy tailored to how to improve VARC for CAT, focusing on regular reading, vocabulary enhancement, practice, and expert guidance.

You will achieve mastery by systematically incorporating reading habits, keyword identification, time management, personalized strategies, and vocabulary development.

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