CAT 2024 VARC Topic-Wise Questions: The Verbal and Reading Comprehension section is the first part of the CAT 2024 exam. Candidates will have 40 minutes to complete this section, which includes four main topics: Reading Comprehension, Parajumbles, Verbal Ability, and Sentences. These topics are consistent components of the CAT VARC section each year, with a strong emphasis on Reading Comprehension and Verbal Ability. The CAT VARC topic wise questions with answers will help aspirants get an idea of the kind of questions they can expect in the section. 

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CAT VARC 2024 Sentence Correction Questions

Given below are some CAT VARC 2024 sentence correction questions along with their solutions:

1. Instruction for Set 1:

For the next four questions, each presents sentences that together form a paragraph. Identify which sentence(s) or part(s) of the sentence(s) are correct in terms of grammar, usage, spelling, punctuation, and logical flow. Then, select the most suitable option.

Question 1

A. The book, which was written by Hemingway and published in 1926, is considered a classic.

B. Many readers has been fascinated by its vivid descriptions and complex characters.

C. The novel tells the story of a lost generation struggling with their personal demons and relationships.

D. Hemmingway’s prose is known for its clarity and brevity, which makes it more engaging.

E. Although it was popular when it first released, it continues to be relevance today.

(a) A only                       
(b) B and C                              
(c) C and D                             
(d) A, C, and E 
(e) B only

Question 2

A. The committee have decided to delay the meeting until next month.

B. Each member of the team were asked to submit their reports by Friday.

C. The updated schedule will be sent out once the new date is finalized.

D. Everyone should have their report ready, and make sure that it is concise and accurte.

E. If there will be any further changes, the team will be notify promptly.

a. A and B
b. B and C
c. C only
d. D and E
e. A and D

Question 3

A. The new policy, which aims to reduce the company’s carbon footprint, is being implemented from this month.

B. Employees are encouraged to adhere to the guidelines, as it will help in saving energy.

C. They will provide training for staff, and to answer any questions about the policy.

D. The management hope that these measures will lead to significant improvements in sustainability.

E. However, some employees has expressed concerns about the cost of implementing the changes.

a. A and B
b. C only 
c. A and D
d. B, D, and E
e. D and E

Question 4

A. Despite of the heavy rain, the community event went ahead as planned.

B. The volunteers worked diligently to set up the tents and decorations.

C. There was a few minor issues with the sound equipment, but the performances were well-received.

D. Everyone’s enthusiasm was crucial for the event’s success, and their effort was appreciated.

E. The attendees were delighted with the event and praised the organizers for their hard work.

a. A and B
b. A, B and C
c. B and E
d. C and D
e. A and E

Solution:

1. Statement A is correct. Statement B is incorrect due to the wrong verb form 'has'; it should be 'have'. Statement C is correct. Statement D is incorrect because of the spelling error 'Hemmingway'; it should be 'Hemingway'. Statement E is incorrect due to the wrong word 'relevance'; it should be 'relevant'.
2. Statement A is incorrect because of the wrong verb form 'have'; it should be 'has'. Statement B is incorrect due to the wrong verb form 'were'; it should be 'was'. Statement C is correct. Statement D is incorrect due to the spelling error 'accurte'; it should be 'accurate'. Statement E is incorrect due to the wrong verb form 'notify'; it should be 'notified'.
3. Statement A is correct. Statement B is correct. Statement C is incorrect due to the incorrect use of 'to'; it should be 'and answer'. Statement D is incorrect due to the wrong verb form 'hope'; it should be 'hopes'. Statement E is incorrect due to the wrong verb form 'has'; it should be 'have'.
4. Statement A is incorrect due to the incorrect phrase 'Despite of'; it should be 'Despite'. Statement B is correct. Statement C is incorrect due to the wrong article 'a few'; it should be 'few'. Statement D is incorrect due to the wrong verb form 'was'; it should be 'were'. Statement E is correct.

CAT 2024 VARC Parajumbles Questions

2. Given below jumbled-up sentences (labelled 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5) about a topic. Four of them can be put together to form a proper paragraph. Identify the odd sentence and key in the number of that sentence as your answer.

a. The rise in global temperatures is causing glaciers to melt at an accelerated rate.
b. Many coastal cities are experiencing increased flooding as a result of rising sea levels.
c. In addition to rising sea levels, melting glaciers are also linked to more frequent and intense weather events.
d. Some argue that immediate and drastic measures are necessary to combat climate change and reduce emissions.
e. The consequences of these changes are already visible and have far-reaching impacts on ecosystems and human societies.

Solution:

Sentence 4 is the odd one out because it shifts the focus to the need for measures against climate change, while the other sentences concentrate on the effects of rising temperatures, melting glaciers, and their impacts. Sentences 1, 2, 3, and 5 form a coherent paragraph discussing the effects of climate change on sea levels, weather events, and their broader impacts.

3. Given below jumbled-up sentences (labelled 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5) about a topic. Four of them can be put together to form a proper paragraph. Identify the odd sentence and key in the number of that sentence as your answer.

a. ncient trade routes played a vital role in enabling the exchange of goods and ideas among various civilizations across continents.
b. These routes, such as the Silk Road, were crucial in spreading innovations and cultural practices throughout history.
c. The decline of these trade routes in the modern era led to reduced intercultural exchanges and economic isolation for some regions.
d. However, the legacy of these routes continues to influence global trade patterns and cultural interactions today.
e. As transportation technologies evolved, the focus shifted from overland trade to maritime and air routes.

Solution:

Sentence 3 is the odd one out because it focuses on the decline of trade routes and its consequences, which is a shift from the other sentences that discuss the significance and legacy of these routes. Sentences 1, 2, 4, and 5 form a coherent paragraph about the historical importance of trade routes, their influence on cultural and economic exchanges, and the shift in trade methods over time.

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CAT VARC 2024 Para Completion and Summary Questions

Next on, check out a few CAT VARC 2024 para completion and summary questions:

4. Read the passage below and select the summary that most accurately reflects its main points from the four options provided.

The construction of the Great Wall of China is one of the most remarkable achievements in ancient engineering. Spanning over 13,000 miles, this fortification was built to protect against invasions and raids from various nomadic groups. Construction started in the 7th century BC and continued for many centuries. The wall is not a single continuous structure but a series of walls and fortifications built at different times and locations. The construction of this landmark required the efforts of many workers and soldiers, and it continues to represent China's historical power and resolve.

a. The Great Wall of China is an extensive fortification built over centuries to defend against invasions, representing China's historical resilience.
b. Construction of the Great Wall of China began in the 7th century BC and involved various nomadic groups.
c. The Great Wall of China is a continuous structure built by countless laborers to symbolize historical strength.
d. The Great Wall of China was built solely in the 7th century BC and served as a single, unified wall.

Solution:

The passage discusses the Great Wall of China’s extensive construction, its purpose for defense, and its representation of historical resilience. Option A most accurately reflects these aspects.

• Option B is incorrect as it doesn’t mention the wall's purpose or the multi-century construction.
• Option C incorrectly suggests the wall is continuous and that it was built only by laborers, missing the broader historical context.
• Option D is incorrect because it misstates the wall’s construction timeline and structure.

5. Read the passage below and select the summary that most accurately reflects its main points from the four options provided.

The Rosetta Stone, discovered in 1799, was a pivotal artifact in deciphering Egyptian hieroglyphs. This granodiorite stele contains the same text inscribed in three scripts: Greek, Demotic, and Egyptian hieroglyphs. The presence of Greek, a known language, allowed scholars like Jean-François Champollion to eventually decode the hieroglyphic script, which had been a mystery for centuries. The Rosetta Stone’s role in translating ancient Egyptian texts opened a window into the culture, history, and knowledge of ancient Egypt, transforming the study of Egyptology and contributing significantly to our understanding of ancient civilizations.

a. Jean-François Champollion used the Rosetta Stone to translate Greek text into Egyptian hieroglyphs, unlocking ancient Egyptian culture.
b. The Rosetta Stone was crucial in translating Egyptian hieroglyphs due to its trilingual inscriptions, leading to significant advancements in Egyptology.
c. The Rosetta Stone, discovered in 1799, contains Egyptian hieroglyphs and Greek inscriptions that were used to decode ancient Egyptian history.
d. The Rosetta Stone provided insights into ancient Egyptian civilization, but it was not instrumental in translating hieroglyphs.

Solution:

The passage details the significance of the Rosetta Stone in translating Egyptian hieroglyphs and its impact on Egyptology. Option B best captures the role of the Rosetta Stone and its contributions to the study of ancient civilizations.

• Option A incorrectly suggests that the Rosetta Stone translated Greek into hieroglyphs rather than providing a key to deciphering hieroglyphs.
• Option C partially captures the information but lacks emphasis on the translation process and its significance.
• Option D is incorrect because it underestimates the Rosetta Stone’s role in translating hieroglyphs.

CAT VARC 2024 Vocabulary Questions

6. Instructions for the next four questions: Each question contains five sentences with two labelled words in each sentence. Choose the best word (A or B) from the options provided to complete each sentence correctly. Select the option that best fits to complete the set of sentences.

Question 1

The artist painted a stunning landscape (A)/landscapes (B) of the mountains.
The teacher asked the students to accept (A)/except (B) the new rules.
The principal (A)/principle (B) of the school gave a speech at the assembly.
The athlete was complimented (A)/complemented (B) for her performance.
The weather (A)/whether (B) was perfect for a picnic in the park.

a. AAAAA
b. ABABA
c. BAAAA
d. AABAA
e. AABAB

Question 2

The cereal (A)/serial (B) killer was apprehended after a long investigation.
She had a flaunt (A)/flout (B) attitude towards the rules.
The stationary (A)/stationery (B) store had a sale on notebooks.
He was known for his eminent (A)/imminent (B) contributions to science.
The desert (A)/dessert (B) was a delicious chocolate cake.

a. AABAB
b. BBAAA
c. ABBAA
d. AABBA
e. BBBAB

Question 3

The council (A)/counsel (B) met to discuss the new policies.
The elusive (A)/illusive (B) nature of the concept made it difficult to grasp.
She felt discreet (A)/discrete about sharing her personal life.
The censure (A)/censor (B) of the film was unexpected.
His prodigious (A)/prodigal talent was recognized by many.

a. AABAB
b. BBABA
c. BAABB
d. ABBAA
e. BBBBA

Question 4

The imminent (A)/eminent threat of a storm forced the event to be canceled.
The affect (A)/effect of the medication was immediate.
Her insight (A)/incite into the problem was invaluable.
The discrepancy (A)/disparity in the reports raised questions.
The complement (A)/compliment she received was well-deserved.

a. AABAB
b. ABBAB
c. BAABA
d. AABBA
e. BBBBA

Solution:

1. "Landscape" is a noun that refers to an expanse of scenery, while "landscapes" is the plural form. In this context, "landscape" is the correct choice.
"Accept" means to receive or agree to something, while "except" means to exclude or leave out. The correct choice here is "accept" as it fits the sentence structure.
"Principal" is a noun that refers to the head of a school, while "principle" is a fundamental truth or proposition. In this case, "principal" is the correct answer.
"Complimented" means to express admiration or praise, while "complemented" means to complete or enhance something. The correct choice is "complimented" as it fits the context of the sentence.
"Weather" is a noun that refers to the state of the atmosphere at a particular time and place, while "whether" is a conjunction used to introduce a choice between alternatives. In this sentence, "weather" is the correct choice.
Correct Answer: a. AAAAA

2. "Cereal" is a breakfast food made from processed grains, while "serial" refers to something presented in a series. In this context, "serial" is the correct choice.
"Flaunt" means to display or show off, while "flout" means to openly disregard or disobey. The correct choice here is "flout" as it fits the meaning of disregarding the rules.

• "Stationary" means fixed or not moving, while "stationery" refers to writing materials. In this context, "stationery" is the correct choice.
• "Eminent" means famous or respected, while "imminent" means about to happen. The correct choice is "eminent" as it refers to the person's notable contributions.
• "Desert" can refer to a dry area of land, while "dessert" is a sweet course eaten at the end of a meal. In this case, "dessert" is the correct choice.

Correct Answer: b. BBAAA

3. "Council" is a group of people who manage or advise, while "counsel" can mean advice or to advise. In this context, "council" is the correct choice.

• "Elusive" means difficult to find or catch, while "illusive" means deceptive or illusory. The correct choice is "elusive", referring to the nature of the concept.
• "Discreet" means careful and circumspect in one's speech or actions, while "discrete" means separate or distinct. In this case, "discreet" is the correct choice.
• "Censure" means to express severe disapproval, while "censor" means to examine and remove objectionable material. The correct choice is "censure" as it fits the context.
• "Prodigious" means remarkably great in extent or degree, while "prodigal" means spending money or resources recklessly. In this case, "prodigious" is the correct choice.

Correct Answer: a. AABAB

4. "Imminent" means about to happen, while "eminent" means famous or respected. The correct choice here is "imminent", referring to the threat of an impending storm.

• "Affect" is a verb meaning to influence, while "effect" can be a noun meaning a result or consequence. In this sentence, "effect" is the correct choice.
• "Insight" means an understanding of a specific situation, while "incite" means to encourage or stir up. In this case, "insight" is the correct choice.
• "Discrepancy" means a lack of compatibility or consistency, while "disparity" means a great difference. The correct choice is "discrepancy" as it refers to the inconsistency in the reports.
• "Complement" means to complete or enhance something, while "compliment" means to express admiration or praise. In this sentence, "compliment" is the correct choice.

Correct Answer: a. AABAB

CAT VARC 2024 Reading Comprehension Questions

7. The passage below is accompanied by four questions. Based on the passage, choose the best answer for each question.

In early postcolonial literature, novels often focused on the nation as their primary setting, exploring national issues. Many of these works used their narratives as allegories for nations like India or Tanzania. While this approach was crucial for fostering anti-colonial nationalism, it sometimes proved restrictive, as it centered predominantly on land-based and inward perspectives.

In my forthcoming book, Writing Ocean Worlds, I explore a novelistic setting beyond traditional locales like villages or nations, focusing instead on the Indian Ocean region. It examines novels where the Indian Ocean is central to the plot, featuring authors such as Amitav Ghosh, Abdulrazak Gurnah, Lindsey Collen, and Joseph Conrad. The authors featured in the book center their narratives around the Indian Ocean, presenting a perspective marked by dynamic movement, cross-border interactions, and connections within the global south. Despite their diverse viewpoints—ranging from Conrad's colonial inclinations to Collen's radical anti-capitalism—they collectively contribute to a broader understanding of the Indian Ocean through themes, images, metaphors, and language. Their works effectively reconfigure the reader's perception of the world, emphasizing the interconnected global south.

The concept of the "Indian Ocean world" highlights the long-standing interactions between the coasts of East Africa, the Arab region, and South and East Asia, all made possible by the Indian Ocean's unique geography. Historically, sea travel was often more accessible than land travel, leading to better connections between distant port cities compared to nearer inland ones. Evidence suggests that the origins of what we now call globalization can be traced to the Indian Ocean. This interconnected oceanic world is the focus of the novels in my book.

Ghosh, Gurnah, Collen, and even Conrad engage with a different historical and geographical context than is typical in English-language fiction, which often centers on Europe or the US, assumes a Christian and white background, and mentions cities like Paris and New York. Instead, the novels featured in my book emphasize an Islamic cultural space, with characters of color and a focus on ports such as Malindi, Mombasa, Aden, Java, and Bombay. This rich, sensory depiction of a southern cosmopolitan culture broadens the sense of place in the world.

This reimagining is particularly impactful for representing Africa. In these works, sailors and travelers are not solely European; African, Indian, and Arab characters play roles as traders, dhow captains, runaways, villains, missionaries, and activists. Although the portrayal of Indian Ocean Africa is not idealized—migration is often forced, travel is depicted as abandonment rather than adventure, and issues like restricted freedoms for women and slavery are present—the African aspect of the Indian Ocean world is shown as an integral part of its extensive history and, by extension, the broader world.

Question 1

Which of the following statements about migration in the Indian Ocean world is incorrect?

a. The migration networks of the Indian Ocean world connected the global north with the global south.
b. Geographical location, rather than proximity, influenced migrants' choice of destination.
c. Religious and commercial histories shaped the migration networks in the Indian Ocean world.
d. Migration in the Indian Ocean world was a complex and ambivalent experience.

Question 2

Based on the relationship between the items in each pair, choose the odd pair out:

a. Indian Ocean novels: Outward-looking
b. Postcolonial novels: Border-crossing
c. Indian Ocean world: Slavery
d. Postcolonial novels: Anti-colonial nationalism

Question 3

Which of the following statements, if true, would NOT undermine the passage’s claim about the connection between mainstream English-language fiction and Indian Ocean novels?

a. The portrayal of Africa in most Indian Ocean novels is influenced by postcolonial nostalgia for an idealized past.
b. The portrayal of Africa in most Indian Ocean novels is shaped by an Orientalist view of its cultural simplicity.
c. Few mainstream English-language novels have historically been set in American and European metropolitan centers.
d. Most mainstream English-language novels have traditionally focused on the experiences of Christian, white, male characters during travel and adventure.

Question 4

Which of the following statements does NOT support the “remapping” discussed in the passage?

a. Indian Ocean novels have moved beyond national issues to delve into rich regional histories.
b. The world of early international trade and commerce was not exclusively dominated by white Europeans.
c. Cosmopolitanism originated in the West and spread to the East through globalization.
d. The global south, rather than the global north, was the initial center of globalization.

Solution:

1. The passage highlights that the migration networks in the Indian Ocean world focused on interactions within the global south, not between the global north and south. Therefore, option (a) is incorrect.

2. The passage mentions that early postcolonial novels were more inward-looking and focused on national issues rather than crossing borders. Therefore, option (b) is the odd pair out.

3. The passage states that mainstream English-language fiction often centers on Christian, white backgrounds and locations in Europe or the US. Therefore, option (d) aligns with this and does not undermine the passage’s claim.

4. The passage describes how Indian Ocean novels and the global south played a significant role in early globalization, challenging the idea that cosmopolitanism originated in the West. Therefore, option (c) does not support the “remapping” discussed in the passage.

CAT VARC 2024 Critical Reasoning Questions

8. A study reveals that 85% of people who regularly drink green tea report feeling more energetic throughout the day. The study also found that these individuals have a 30% lower incidence of feeling fatigued compared to those who do not consume green tea. Researchers attribute these findings to the high levels of antioxidants in green tea, which are believed to improve overall vitality and reduce tiredness.

Which can be the best conclusion for the study above?

a. Regular green tea drinkers are 30% less likely to feel energetic compared to non-drinkers.
b. Green tea has no impact on the energy levels of individuals who are already feeling energetic.
c. The antioxidants in green tea may contribute to improved energy levels and reduced fatigue.
d. The study shows that 85% of people feel more energetic due to factors other than green tea.

Solution:

The study highlights that 85% of green tea drinkers feel more energetic and have a lower incidence of fatigue, linking this to the antioxidants in green tea. Therefore, the conclusion that best fits is (c) "The antioxidants in green tea may contribute to improved energy levels and reduced fatigue."

9. Studies on the migratory patterns of monarch butterflies have shown that these insects travel an average of 3,200 km from their breeding grounds in Canada to their wintering sites in Mexico. Interestingly, individual butterflies can vary significantly in their migration distance, with some traveling as much as 3,500 km. The butterflies' migration is an impressive feat, considering they weigh only about 0.5 g and have to navigate across multiple countries and climates.

Which of the following conclusions can be best drawn from the passage?

a. Monarch butterflies are capable of migrating longer distances than 3,200 kilometers.
b. Monarch butterflies weigh more than 0.5 grams, which supports their long migration.
c. Monarch butterflies travel an average of 3,200 kilometers without any variation in distance.
d. The migration of monarch butterflies is impressive due to their lightweight and long-distance travel.

Solution:

The passage highlights the impressive migration distance of monarch butterflies, including individual variations and their light weight. Therefore, the best-supported conclusion is (d) "The migration of monarch butterflies is impressive due to their lightweight and long-distance travel."

CAT VARC 2024 Verbal Ability Questions

Here are some CAT VARC 2024 Verbal ability questions with their answers:

10. One sentence is missing from the paragraph below. Review the paragraph and choose the best place for the following sentence (option 1, 2, 3, or 4).

Sentence: This discovery marks a significant leap in our understanding of ancient oceanic trade routes.

Paragraph: Recent research on ancient maritime artifacts has revealed unexpected findings. Archaeologists have unearthed pottery shards from the Polynesian islands that bear striking similarities to those found in Madagascar. (1). These artifacts, dated to around the 10th century, suggest that maritime trade was more extensive than previously thought. (2). The resemblance in pottery styles indicates a potential trade network across vast distances, challenging the traditional view of isolated island cultures. (3). This discovery has sparked new theories about how these distant cultures might have interacted and traded goods. (4).

a. Option 2
b. Option 3
c. Option 1
d. Option 4

Solution:

The sentence best fits in Blank 1 because it provides a direct explanation of the significance of the findings mentioned in the sentence immediately before Blank 1. It introduces the importance of the discovery before detailing its implications for maritime trade routes.

11. One sentence is missing from the paragraph below. Review the paragraph and choose the best place for the following sentence (option 1, 2, 3, or 4).

Sentence: The effects of these changes were not only immediate but also extended well into the future, affecting various aspects of daily life.

Paragraph: The COVID-19 pandemic brought about a dramatic shift in how people lived and worked. (1) The abrupt transition to remote work and online schooling introduced new challenges and stressors that many were unprepared for. (2) As a result, mental health professionals have observed a significant rise in cases of anxiety, depression, and other psychological issues. (3) These changes led to a reevaluation of priorities and lifestyle choices for many individuals, highlighting the long-term impacts on personal and professional life. (4)

a. Option 1
b. Option 4
c. Option 3
d. Option 2

Solution:

The sentence best fits in Blank 2 because it provides an explanation for the rise in mental health issues mentioned in the sentence before Blank 2. It elaborates on the immediate effects of the pandemic-related changes and sets up a discussion of their long-term impacts, which will follow in the subsequent sentences.

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