If you’re preparing for the Common Admission Test, knowing the VARC syllabus for CAT is one of the most important steps in your preparation journey. The Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension section tests how well you can read, interpret, and understand written information, which is a skill that’s crucial for every future manager.
Below, we’ll walk you through the complete CAT English syllabus, including all the topics covered under Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC). You’ll learn what to expect, which areas to focus on, and how to plan your preparation effectively to boost your overall percentile.
CAT VARC Syllabus 2025-26: Overview
Below is a clear and concise overview of CAT VARC syllabus:
| Particulars | Details |
| Section Name | Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) |
| Commonly Known As | CAT English Section / CAT VA-RC Section |
| Total Questions | 24 (Approx.) |
| Duration | 40 Minutes |
| Type of Questions | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Type In The Answer (TITA) |
| Marking Scheme | +3 for each correct answer, –1 for each wrong MCQ, no negative marking for TITA |
| Weightage in Exam | Around 35% of total CAT marks |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate to High |
| Key Areas Covered | Reading Comprehension, Para Summary, Para Jumbles, Sentence Placement, Odd One Out |
| Skills Tested | Reading comprehension, critical reasoning, grammar, vocabulary, and logical structuring |
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CAT VARC Syllabus: All Topics
These are the topics in CAT syllabus for VARC section:
| Section | Topic | Description | Question Type | No. of Questions (Approx.) |
| Reading Comprehension (RC) | Fact-Based RCs | Passages with factual data or real events requiring direct answers. | MCQs | 3–4 |
| Inference-Based RCs | Questions requiring interpretation and understanding of implied meanings. | MCQs | 4–5 | |
| Abstract RCs | Philosophical or conceptual passages testing depth of comprehension. | MCQs | 3–4 | |
| Application-Based RCs | Passages linking ideas to practical examples or real-world contexts. | MCQs | 2–3 | |
| Tone & Attitude | Identify the author’s tone, opinion, or writing style. | MCQs | 2 | |
| Vocabulary in Context | Determine word meanings based on passage context. | MCQs | 1–2 | |
| Verbal Ability (VA) | Para Summary | Choose the most suitable summary for a given paragraph. | MCQs | 3 |
| Para Jumbles | Rearrange jumbled sentences into a logical paragraph. | TITA | 2 | |
| Sentence Placement (Insertion) | Identify the correct position for a sentence within a paragraph. | MCQs | 3 | |
| Odd One Out | Select the sentence that doesn’t fit logically with others. | TITA | 2 | |
| Grammar-Based / Critical Reasoning (Rare) | Occasional questions testing grammar or logical reasoning. | MCQs | 0–1 | |
| Total (Approx.) | — | — | — | 24 Questions |
Download Complete CAT Syllabus PDF.
Download the detailed CAT syllabus PDF that covers all three sections – VARC, DILR, and Quantitative Aptitude – along with topic-wise breakdowns, question distribution, and expert preparation insights.
CAT VARC Syllabus for Reading Comprehension (RC)
The CAT Reading Comprehension section forms the largest part of the VARC section and plays a crucial role in determining your overall percentile.
| Topic | Description | Types of Questions | No. of Questions (Approx.) |
| Fact-based RCs | Passages built around data, events, or factual information requiring direct answers. | MCQs | 3–4 |
| Inference-based RCs | Passages where answers rely on logical deduction and author’s viewpoint. | MCQs | 4–5 |
| Abstract RCs | Topics on philosophy, psychology, or art that test critical and conceptual thinking. | MCQs | 3–4 |
| Application-based RCs | Real-world or scenario-driven passages testing how ideas apply to examples. | MCQs | 2–3 |
| Tone & Style Analysis | Questions on identifying tone, attitude, or writing style of the author. | MCQs | 2 |
| Vocabulary-in-Context | Questions testing meaning or usage of words within passage context. | MCQs | 1–2 |
| Total | — | — | 16 Questions (Approx.) |
As part of the CAT English syllabus, reading comprehension tests how well you can read, understand, and analyze written passages on diverse topics, from science, philosophy, and history to current affairs and abstract ideas.
The CAT Reading Comprehension syllabus includes four passages, each followed by 4 MCQs, making it the most scoring and consistent component of the exam. The CAT RC syllabus focuses on evaluating your ability to infer meaning, understand the author’s tone, and identify the main idea with accuracy and speed.
Number of CAT Reading Comprehension Questions Over the Years
| Year | No. of RC Passages | Total RC Questions | Total VARC Questions |
| 2019 | 5 | 24 | 34 |
| 2020 | 4 | 18 | 26 |
| 2021 | 4 | 16 | 24 |
| 2022 | 4 | 16 | 24 |
| 2023 | 4 | 16 | 24 |
| 2024 | 4 | 16 | 24 |
Skills Tested in CAT Reading Comprehension Syllabus
- Reading speed and comprehension accuracy
- Identifying central ideas and supporting arguments
- Recognizing tone, attitude, and style of writing
- Drawing logical inferences from information
- Understanding cause-effect relationships
- Distinguishing between facts, assumptions, and opinions
- Interpreting meaning through contextual vocabulary
Importance of CAT RC Syllabus:
- Dominates the VARC section: Around 16 out of 24 questions come from RCs.
- Improves overall percentile: Strong RC performance directly boosts total CAT score.
- Builds analytical thinking: Helps develop reasoning and interpretation skills.
- Enhances English comprehension: Essential for reading-based MBA coursework later.
- Useful for GD-PI-WAT rounds: Improves clarity of thought and expression for interviews.
Mentor’s Insights:
As someone who has mentored CAT aspirants for over a decade, we can confidently say RC is where you win or lose the section. Focus on daily reading, understand ideas-not words-and practice analysis, not memorization. Over time, you’ll see your accuracy and confidence soar.
CAT Verbal Ability Syllabus
The Verbal Ability (VA) section forms the second part of the CAT VARC syllabus and focuses on your grasp of grammar, sentence structure, and logical flow of ideas.
Unlike Reading Comprehension, this part doesn’t test speed but accuracy, logic, and language understanding.
| Topic | Description | Types of Questions | No. of Questions (Approx.) |
| Para Summary | Identify the best summary that captures the essence of the paragraph. | MCQs | 3 |
| Para Jumbles | Rearrange jumbled sentences to form a meaningful paragraph. | TITA | 2 |
| Sentence Placement (Insertion) | Choose the most logical position for a given sentence within a paragraph. | MCQs | 3 |
| Odd One Out | Select the sentence that doesn’t fit in with the rest logically. | TITA | 2 |
| Grammar-Based or Critical Reasoning (Occasional) | Questions involving logical relationships or error spotting (rare). | MCQs | 0–1 |
| Total | — | — | 8 Questions (Approx.) |
The CAT Verbal Ability syllabus includes question types like Para Summary, Para Jumbles, Sentence Placement, and Odd One Out. Each question type evaluates your ability to interpret written text, understand connections between sentences, and organize ideas coherently.
For aspirants preparing under the VARC syllabus for CAT exam, mastering VA ensures strong comprehension skills and balanced performance across the entire section.
Skills Tested in CAT Verbal Ability Syllabus
- Logical sequencing of ideas
- Understanding paragraph structure and coherence
- Identifying central themes and transitions
- Grammatical correctness and contextual clarity
- Analytical reading and critical reasoning
- Recognizing tone, flow, and argument patterns
Importance of Verbal Ability in CAT Syllabus
- Balances your VARC performance: Contributes around one-third of the total VARC marks.
- Tests comprehension and logic together: Builds both linguistic accuracy and reasoning ability.
- Improves writing and communication skills: Essential for MBA interviews and essay writing.
- Helps non-native speakers strengthen English fundamentals: Useful beyond CAT for academic and professional success.
- Key for clearing sectional cut-offs: A strong VA score ensures balance when RC is tricky.
Mentor’s Insights:
Verbal Ability is about logic, not grammar alone. Read carefully, understand the structure, and visualize paragraph flow. Practice daily from past CAT papers, focusing on why each option is right or wrong. Accuracy here can save your score when Reading Comprehension feels unpredictable.
CAT VARC Syllabus: No. of Questions Over the Years
| Year | Reading Comprehension (RC) | Verbal Ability (VA) | Total Questions (VARC) |
| 2019 | 24 (5 Passages) | 10 | 34 |
| 2020 | 18 (4 Passages) | 8 | 26 |
| 2021 | 16 (4 Passages) | 8 | 24 |
| 2022 | 16 (4 Passages) | 8 | 24 |
| 2023 | 16 (4 Passages) | 8 | 24 |
| 2024 | 16 (4 Passages) | 8 | 24 |
Importance of VARC Syllabus for CAT
- Carries the highest sectional weightage: The VARC section contributes about one-third of the total CAT score, making it crucial for achieving a high percentile.
- First section in the exam: A strong start in VARC helps set the right pace and confidence for the rest of the paper.
- Key for IIM shortlisting: Most IIMs assign high importance to the VARC score while calculating composite scores for admission.
- Builds strong communication skills: The section enhances reading, comprehension, and expression — essential for MBA studies and interviews.
- Improves analytical and logical reasoning: RC and VA questions develop reasoning, argument analysis, and decision-making abilities.
- Balances overall performance: Excelling in VARC can compensate for slightly lower scores in Quant or DILR.
- Helps in GD-PI-WAT rounds: Strong command over English and comprehension directly benefits post-CAT evaluation stages.
- Develops real-world managerial skills: Reading comprehension and verbal logic are vital for understanding reports, data, and communication in management roles.
More important resources for CAT exam:
| CAT Exam: All details | CAT Admit Card |
| CAT Answer Key | CAT Exam Eligibility |
| CAT Percentile vs Score | CAT Practice Questions |
| CAT DILR Syllabus | CAT Quant Questions |
| CAT Quant Syllabus |
How to Prepare for VARC Syllabus for CAT?
1. Understand Pattern of CAT VARC Syllabus
Before you begin preparation, spend time understanding what the CAT VARC syllabus actually includes – Reading Comprehension, Para Summary, Para Jumbles, and more. Many students jump straight into mocks without clarity.
Knowing the syllabus well and familiarizing yourself with the CAT exam pattern helps you study smarter, prioritize high-weightage topics, and avoid last-minute confusion.
2. Treat CAT English Syllabus as Skill-Building Journey
The CAT English syllabus is not about memorizing grammar rules or vocabulary lists. It’s about developing reading habits and analytical thinking. Read diverse materials daily: newspapers, editorials, essays, and business magazines.
Build a reading routine and practice summarizing what you read. This single habit will dramatically improve both speed and comprehension.
3. Master Core Topics of CAT VARC
Focus on the recurring topics in the syllabus of CAT VARC — Reading Comprehension, Para Summary, Sentence Placement, and Odd One Out. Learn to identify question patterns and build logic through daily practice.
Analyze why certain answer options are wrong. The goal isn’t just accuracy but understanding how the examiner expects you to think.
4. Analyze and Adapt Your Strategy to CAT Exam Syllabus
The CAT examination syllabus demands time management, not just content mastery. Practice solving 4–5 RC passages weekly under timed conditions. Learn when to skip tough passages and when to attempt TITA questions confidently.
Adapt your approach to your strengths. Some students excel in RCs, others in VA. Smart adaptability wins half the battle.
5. Build Vocabulary and Grammar Naturally, Not Mechanically
Instead of rote memorization, expand your vocabulary through reading. Note unfamiliar words, learn their meanings through context, and use them in sentences.
For grammar, revise sentence correction and parallel structure. A strong foundation in language automatically boosts your accuracy across Verbal Ability and RC questions.
6. Take Sectional Tests and Mocks Regularly
Consistent practice under exam conditions is essential. Take weekly sectional tests focused solely on VARC, and later, integrate them with full-length mocks.
Analyze every test. Identify question types you miss, track your accuracy, and work on your weak zones. Progress comes from smart reflection, not endless repetition.
Start now with these free mocks:
7. Balance Speed and Accuracy
Many students either rush through RCs or spend too long on one passage. The trick is to maintain balance. Spend the first few minutes scanning all RC sets, attempt your strongest first, and aim for accuracy over quantity. 4 accurate RCs out of 5 can secure a top percentile.
8. Revise and Reflect Every Week
Set aside one day each week to revise your notes: vocabulary lists, tone types, and common RC themes. Reflect on mistakes from previous mocks. Regular revision keeps your skills sharp and ensures you retain everything you’ve learned while covering the vast CAT VARC syllabus effectively.
9. Build Patience and Consistency
Improvement in VARC is gradual. Don’t expect instant results. Read, practice, analyze, repeat; every single day. Even 30 minutes of focused reading can improve your comprehension drastically over months. Remember, CAT rewards those who stay consistent, not those who study in short bursts of motivation.
10. Learn to Enjoy Reading and Critical Thinking
Ultimately, CAT VARC isn’t just an exam section — it’s a test of how you process information. The more you enjoy reading and analyzing, the better you’ll perform. Turn curiosity into your strength; approach every passage as a conversation with the author. That mindset is what separates toppers from the rest.
Practice with CAT PYQs:
| CAT Previous Year Papers | CAT 2025 Question Paper |
| CAT 2024 Question Paper | CAT 2023 Question Paper |
| CAT 2022 Question Paper | CAT 2021 Question Paper |
| CAT 2020 Question Paper | CAT 2019 Question Paper |
Best Books for CAT VARC Syllabus
To prepare effectively for the VARC section, choosing the right study materials is as important as regular practice. The best books for CAT help you strengthen comprehension, grammar, and verbal logic while improving speed and accuracy.
| Book Title | Author(s) | Key Highlights |
| How to Prepare for Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension for CAT | Arun Sharma & Meenakshi Upadhyay | Comprehensive coverage of RC and VA topics with strategy-based exercises and LOD-level questions. |
| The Pearson Guide to Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT | Nishit K. Sinha | Ideal for focused reading practice and strengthening vocabulary, grammar, and inference skills. |
| Word Power Made Easy | Norman Lewis | Builds strong vocabulary through root-based learning and practical word usage. |
| High School English Grammar & Composition | Wren & Martin | Strengthens grammar accuracy, sentence structure, and logical flow — helpful for VA questions. |
| A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning | R.S. Aggarwal | Useful for improving logical reasoning and analytical thinking for verbal sets. |
| RC Practice eBooks / Online Passages (by Top EdTech Platforms) | Various | Offers updated CAT-level RC sets, tone-based questions, and time-bound practice for realistic exam exposure. |
Mentor’s Note:
Start with one main book like Arun Sharma’s VARC and supplement it with daily reading (editorials, essays, magazines). Consistent reading and timed RC practice from multiple sources make the biggest difference in your CAT VARC performance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in CAT English Syllabus
- Skipping regular reading practice: Many aspirants focus only on mocks and ignore reading. Without daily reading, your comprehension speed and understanding will not improve.
- Rushing through passages: Speed without comprehension leads to wrong answers. Read carefully to understand tone, structure, and main ideas.
- Over-relying on guesswork: Avoid selecting options based on intuition or partial understanding, especially in RCs and Para Summaries.
- Ignoring TITA questions: Non-MCQ (TITA) questions often have no negative marking – don’t leave them unanswered.
- Neglecting analysis after mocks: Simply taking tests isn’t enough; analyze every wrong answer to identify patterns and weak areas.
- Focusing only on Reading Comprehension: Verbal Ability questions (like Para Summary and Sentence Placement) also carry significant marks – practice both areas evenly.
- Not noting vocabulary and tone types: Building a list of recurring words, tones, and connectors helps improve consistency across passages.
- Reading too slowly or too quickly: Maintain a steady pace – neither rushing through nor overanalyzing sentences.
- Ignoring logical flow in VA questions: Always check for continuity and coherence between sentences to identify the right sequence or summary.
- Panicking when RC topics seem unfamiliar: Focus on comprehension and reasoning rather than your familiarity with the subject matter.
FAQs About CAT VARC Syllabus
VARC stands for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension. It’s one of the three main sections of the CAT exam and tests your English reading, reasoning, and language skills.
There are usually 24 questions – 16 from Reading Comprehension (RC) and 8 from Verbal Ability (VA).
The CAT VARC syllabus includes Reading Comprehension, Para Summary, Para Jumbles, Sentence Placement, and Odd One Out questions.
The difficulty level is moderate to high. RC passages can be tricky, but with regular reading and logical analysis, the section becomes manageable.
Yes. MCQs have a –1 mark penalty for wrong answers. However, TITA (Type in the Answer) questions have no negative marking.
You get 40 minutes to complete the entire VARC section in CAT.
The VARC section carries roughly one-third (35%) of the total CAT score, making it extremely important for your overall percentile.
Yes, each IIM and top B-school has its own sectional cut-off for VARC that you must clear to qualify for the next stage.
They give you jumbled sentences that must be rearranged to form a logical paragraph. These are usually TITA questions.
While grammar isn’t directly tested, it plays an indirect role in VA questions like sentence placement and para summary.
Read daily, note unfamiliar words, and learn meanings through context rather than memorization. Books like Word Power Made Easy help too.
The CAT English syllabus doesn’t have direct grammar-based questions, but a good command over grammar helps in VA accuracy.
Absolutely. With regular reading, consistent practice, and mock test analysis, non-English background students have cracked 99+ percentile in VARC.
Usually, there are 4–5 TITA questions, mostly from Para Jumbles and Odd One Out.
You need around 70–80% accuracy with smart question selection to hit 99 percentile in VARC.
Yes, with focused preparation. Dedicate 2 hours daily – one for reading comprehension and one for verbal reasoning practice.
Yes, but prefer non-fiction, essays, and opinion pieces that match CAT RC tone and structure. Fiction helps vocabulary but not comprehension style.
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