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– Santosh Anand
Embarking on the journey to secure admission to a top college for English Honours demands more than just casual preparation — it requires a strategic and comprehensive approach. With the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) being a critical component of the admission process, mastering the English section is paramount. Here’s a comprehensive guide to managing this critical component of the admission process.
Begin by acquainting yourself with the format of the CUET English section. This includes grasping the various question types, such as reading comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, and writing. Knowing the structure of the exam enables you to tailor your preparation accordingly.
Reading comprehension forms a significant portion of the English section. Practice reading diverse texts, ranging from narrative to literary passages. Focus on understanding main idea, tone, mood, theme, and supporting details. Practicing previous year papers and taking mock tests can help sharpen your comprehension skills and familiarize you with the types of questions commonly asked.
A strong command of grammar and an extensive vocabulary are essential for success in the admission process. Review grammar rules, including adverbs, prepositions, conjunctions, clauses, reported speech, voice, sentence structure, and tenses. Additionally, expand your vocabulary by learning antonyms, synonyms, idioms, literary devices, homophones, and one-word substitutions. Delve into classical literature, such as Shakespeare’s works like “The Tempest,” “The Merchant of Venice,” and “Julius Caesar,” for exposure to foreign vocabulary. Utilise resources like “High School English Grammar and Composition” by Wren and Martin for grammar and “Word Power Made Easy” by Norman Lewis for vocabulary enhancement.
Effective communication through writing is another crucial aspect of the admission process. Pay close attention to the format, body, salutation and subscription of the letters, as well as formats for notice writing and email composition. Practice crafting well-structured and articulate written pieces to demonstrate your proficiency in this area.
Solving previous years’ question papers is invaluable for understanding the exam pattern and the types of questions asked. Analyse the trends in question distribution and focus on areas where you may need improvement. Additionally, practice time management to ensure you can complete the exam within the allotted timeframe.
(The author is the Content Head at ExamFactor)
