Reading Comprehension Test

Posted by R Nagesh T on July 2, 2010

As you know, Reading Comprehension (RC) is one of the critical sections of any MBA entrance examination. For students, who are not so good in mathematics, this section becomes even more important.  For obvious reasons, it is preferable for such students to start with the English sections.  Now, how to approach the RC test?

The basic rule is a known factor. One has to be an avid and good reader of English. The preparation must be such that a student is able to read and comprehend a sentence in one go. Repetitions or going back and forth will not help the cause.

Nevertheless, for scoring high marks in a MBA entrance examination, one needs to be smart as well.

Firstly, it is important to practice on all types of topics during preparation for entrance tests. Many students prefer to go to tutorials and benefit from a series of practice tests and mock tests conducted by them. Very often, RC tests have an option, say, to attempt 5 out of 7 or more passages.  Now, the passages, which are left unattempted, are most probably the ones that were either lengthy or difficult to comprehend.  It is advisable to practice these passages, later on at home.  The students will be in better frame of mind during MBA entrance, if they cover them as well.

Secondly, it is important to be an intelligent reader. Answering questions would be easy, if the student focuses on what the passage is trying to convey, rather than on the specific words or jargons used. Again, one has to practice and learn to fine tune the reading speed in accordance with different topics and their complexity. It helps in faster understanding of passage and swift answering of questions.

Thirdly, it is preferable to attempt the RC section after the English Usage (EU) test.  The initial few minutes of the test may create nervousness.  Attempting EU, which is far easier, before RC, provides the much needed warm up. It may also help in gaining confidence before attempting RC which requires high levels of concentration, fast reading and quick comprehension.

Fourthly, one is advised to glance through the RC section. This is important:

a)  to have an idea of the length of different passages and number of questions at the end. Remember, it is not necessary that a bigger passage will have more questions or a small passage will have fewer questions. To save time, it is advisable to attempt those passages first, for which passage/questions ratio is less.

b) each passage may be diverse in terms of subject-matter and flow of language.  The passage may relate to social concerns, politics, philosophy, economics and business among others. Again some passages may be difficult to comprehend and some may be easier. Therefore, one needs to choose those passages first, which he or she is comfortable with.

c) time management is extremely important. Students who are not so good in mathematics may be required to devote more time for that section. It is more crucial for such students to take preparation for RC very seriously, which would enable them to complete the RC section efficiently in less time.

Finally, and more importantly, one is required to be calm and confident while attempting the RC section. It’s a combination of preparation and temperament, which holds the key for scoring high marks in a MBA entrance examination.