Errors in Reading Section

Here are common errors students commit while attempting the Reading Section (factual, discursive, and case-based passages):

---

1. Factual Passages

Errors:

Not skimming the passage for key facts before attempting questions.

Misreading data in tables, graphs, or charts (e.g., misinterpreting numerical trends).

Guessing answers instead of referring back to the passage for verification.

Confusing dates, names, or figures when multiple similar facts are present.

Writing incomplete answers that miss specific details asked in the question.

Tips to Avoid Errors:

Skim the passage to identify the main points quickly.

Refer to the passage for exact data instead of assuming.

Highlight or underline important details while reading.

---

2. Discursive Passages

Errors:

Failure to identify the central idea or purpose of the passage.

Writing vague or irrelevant answers due to a lack of critical analysis.

Struggling with inference-based questions, leading to guesses.

Not paying attention to the tone or attitude of the author (e.g., sarcastic, critical, optimistic).

Mixing up opinions and facts, leading to inaccurate answers.

Tips to Avoid Errors:

Understand the theme and tone of the passage.

Look for keywords that signal the author's attitude or argument.

Use elimination techniques for inference-based MCQs.

---

3. Case-Based Passages

Errors:

Ignoring contextual clues provided in the case or scenario.

Misinterpreting the relationship between data and the passage content.

Overlooking the connection between the questions and the passage.

Writing overly generalized answers for specific analytical questions.

Spending too much time analyzing one part of the case, leaving insufficient time for other questions.

Tips to Avoid Errors:

Read the case carefully to understand its purpose and structure.

Look for cause-effect relationships or logical connections between parts of the case.

Focus on keywords in both the passage and questions to align your answers.

---

Common Errors Across All Passage Types

1. Not managing time effectively: Spending too much time on one question or passage.

2. Misinterpreting questions: Overlooking critical keywords like "not," "except," "only," etc.

3. Writing overly long answers: Adding unnecessary details beyond what is asked.

4. Skipping unfamiliar words: Failing to deduce the meaning of unknown words from context.

5. Neglecting proofreading: Missing grammatical or spelling errors in written responses.

---

General Tips for the Reading Section

Read the questions first: This helps in identifying the relevant portions of the passage quickly.

Underline or annotate key details while reading.

For MCQs, eliminate incorrect options before selecting an answer.

Practice solving a variety of passages to build familiarity with formats.

Improve vocabulary to handle unfamiliar words and phrases better.

With focused preparation and practice, these errors can be minimized, ensuring higher accuracy and better time management.