The Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) section is common to both CAT and XAT, but the way it is tested is quite different. Many aspirants who rely only on CAT prep get surprised by XAT’s vocab-heavy and grammar-oriented questions. Let’s break down the key differences and preparation tips.

Exam Structure – VARC in CAT vs XAT

CAT VARC

• ~24 questions (all MCQs & TITA)

• RC-heavy: ~16–18 RC questions + 6–8 VA (para-based)

• RCs are longer and reasoning-driven (inference, tone, author’s argument)

• No direct vocab/grammar

XAT VARC

• ~26 questions (all MCQs)

• Balanced mix: RC + Verbal Ability

• RCs are shorter but trickier in language

• Includes Vocabulary, Grammar, Para-jumbles, Critical Reasoning, Sentence Completion, Poem-based RCs

• Strong emphasis on word meaning, analogies, and contextual usage

 Key Differences

1. RC Style

• CAT: Dense passages, logical inference, abstract topics.

• XAT: Shorter but tougher language, sometimes poetic or literary.

• CAT: Almost zero direct vocab.

• XAT: Direct vocab (synonyms, antonyms, analogy, fill in the blanks).

• CAT: Rarely tested.

• XAT: Sentence correction, grammar usage, para-completion.

• CAT: Mostly embedded within RCs.

• XAT: Direct CR questions + para-based reasoning.

• CAT: Tougher RCs, lighter VA.

• XAT: Trickier RCs, heavy VA (vocab/grammar intensive).

 Preparation Tips for XAT Verbal

• Revise Vocabulary: Use flashcards, word lists (Word Power Made Easy, Norman Lewis).

• Practice Grammar: Focus on subject-verb agreement, modifiers, sentence correction.

• Solve Past Year XAT Papers: Styles repeat (e.g., poem-based RCs).

• Critical Reasoning Drills: Practice GMAT CR sets for strengthening reasoning.

• Balance RC & VA: Don’t treat verbal prep as RC-only (unlike CAT).

 Final Word

If you’re preparing for both CAT and XAT, remember this: CAT tests your reasoning in reading, while XAT tests your language depth. A good mix of vocabulary, grammar, and logical reasoning practice is the key to cracking XAT Verbal.