The Verbal Ability section of the CAT exam is often underestimated until students meet the dreaded Parajumbles. These tricky, puzzle-like questions seem simple at first glance but have tripped up even the best readers and grammar nerds.
In previous year CAT exams, candidates faced 2–3 Parajumble questions in the TITA (Type in the Answer) format with no options, no hints. Just four jumbled sentences and one job: put them in the correct order.
Sounds simple? Think again.
Why Are Parajumbles Important?
Here’s why mastering Parajumbles is crucial for your CAT Verbal score:
| Reason | Explanation |
| Weightage | Appears as 2–3 questions every year, carrying 3 marks each. |
| No Negative Marking (TITA) | While you won’t lose marks for wrong answers, wasting time on them is risky. |
| Tests Core Verbal Skills | Logical flow, paragraph structure, connectors, and context. |
| Time Sink if Mishandled | Without a strategy, students often lose precious time and accuracy. |
At Tarkashastra, we’ve seen how a solid Parajumbles strategy has helped many of our students improve their Verbal Ability percentile by 10–15 points, especially in mocks and the final CAT.
What This Blog Will Help You Do:
- Understand what Parajumbles are and why they’re tough
- Learn step-by-step techniques to solve them faster and more accurately
- Avoid common traps and mistakes
- Build a practical, day-wise practice plan
- Access resources and expert tips for daily improvement
Whether you’re just starting or have been stuck on this question type for months, this guide will give you clarity, direction, and a toolkit for CAT Verbal success.
What Are Parajumbles in CAT?
Parajumbles are a common and often frustrating question in the CAT Verbal Ability section. They require rearranging jumbled sentences to form a coherent and meaningful paragraph.
These questions are not just about grammar, they test your logical reasoning, comprehension, and ability to detect the natural flow of ideas.
Definition:
Parajumbles are questions in which a candidate is given 4 or 5 disordered sentences and asked to arrange them in the correct logical sequence to form a meaningful paragraph.
Types of Parajumble Questions in CAT
CAT primarily tests one primary type of Parajumble question — TITA (Type in the Answer) — but older formats included MCQs as well.
Here’s a comparison table:
| Type | Description | Marking Scheme | Common in CAT? |
| TITA (Type in the Answer) | 4 jumbled sentences, no options, type the correct sequence like “1324” | +3 for correct, 0 for incorrect (no negative marking) | YES (Common in CAT 2020–2023) |
| MCQ-Based Parajumbles | 4-5 sentences with 4 sequence options | +3 for correct, -1 for wrong | ❌ Rare now, used before 2015 |
What Parajumbles Test
Parajumbles are not about vocabulary or grammar rules alone. They test the following abilities:
| Skill Tested | What It Means |
| Logical Sequencing | Ability to arrange ideas in a coherent flow |
| Contextual Understanding | Identifying what the passage is about and what each sentence contributes. |
| Connector Identification | Recognizing linking words (like “but,” “however,” “therefore”) and how they bind ideas. |
| Pronoun Referencing | Understanding which noun a pronoun refers to. |
| Elimination of Wrong Orders | Rejecting illogical or abrupt sentence transitions. |
Real CAT-Level Example (TITA Format)
Let’s look at a simplified example that mimics the CAT style:
Q. Rearrange the following sentences into a coherent paragraph:
A. The search for the origin of life is a complex and multidisciplinary endeavor.
B. Scientists from fields such as biology, chemistry, and astronomy are involved.
C. One key question they seek to answer is how non-living molecules formed the first living cells.
D. This collaboration has led to fascinating insights into early Earth conditions.
Answer: The logical order is: A → B → C → D (1234)
Explanation:
- A introduces the broad topic.
- B narrows it to the people involved.
- C states the core scientific question.
- D concludes with the impact of collaboration.
Why Are CAT Parajumbles Tougher Than School English?
| School-Level English | CAT-Level Parajumbles |
| Often straightforward; follow a visible theme | Intentionally ambiguous with multiple “plausible” arrangements |
| Usually come with options | No options in CAT (TITA) — must create a sequence from scratch |
| One clear connector per sentence | Sentences often have implicit connectors or clues |
| Grammar and vocabulary-focused | Logic, coherence, and flow-focused |
Pro Tip from Tarkashastra:
“Don’t read the sentences in order. Read all 4 and try to identify the opening and closing sentences first. Build the middle later.”
Why Are Parajumbles Tricky in CAT?
Parajumbles in the CAT exam are not your average rearrangement puzzles. While the concept sounds easy, which is to put sentences in order, the CAT format makes it deliberately difficult, especially with the TITA (Type in the Answer) format.
Let’s break down why students struggle with Parajumbles, even if they are fluent in English.
Common Challenges in CAT Parajumbles
| Challenge | Explanation |
| No Options Given | TITA format removes the ability to use elimination. You must build the sequence from scratch. |
| Multiple “Plausible” Orders | Several sequences might make grammatical sense, but only one has the correct logical flow. |
| Sentences Are Closely Related | CAT intentionally sets sentences that appear similar in tone and subject, making it hard to pick a start or end. |
| Trap Sentences | Some sentences seem like opening lines but are actually continuations or examples. |
| Penalty of Time | There’s no negative marking, but wasting 3–4 minutes on one Parajumble can hurt your sectional time strategy. |
CAT’s Strategy Behind Parajumbles
CAT examiners design Parajumble questions to test natural language intuition and logical flow, not rote grammar knowledge. That’s why the sentences:
- Often lack clear indicators like dates or names.
- Include pronouns without nouns, requiring you to guess references.
- Have shuffled cause-effect sequences, making order harder to detect.
Real Student Experience
“I knew all four sentences made sense, but I just couldn’t figure out which one starts the paragraph. I wasted 6 minutes on that one question.” — Aditya, CAT 2024 aspirant (Tarkashastra student)
This is a common experience, even among high scorers. Without a strategy, even well-read students get stuck.
Why You Should Still Attempt Parajumbles
Despite the challenge, TITA-based Parajumbles have zero risk (no negative marking). If approached strategically, they can be:
- Low-risk attempts
- High return per minute (if you master the method)
- Confidence boosters in Verbal, where accuracy usually drops
What You Need to Tackle This Section
To tackle CAT Parajumbles effectively, you need:
- A proven method to identify sentence flow
- The ability to spot mandatory pairs and opening/closing lines
- Consistent practice with actual CAT-level TITA questions
And that’s what the next section will focus on the exact strategies and frameworks that work for thousands of toppers.
CAT Parajumbles Question Format: With Examples
Before we dive into techniques, it’s essential to fully understand the structure and format of Parajumble questions in CAT. This clarity can drastically improve how you approach the question in an exam setting.
What Does a CAT Parajumble Question Look Like?
Here’s what you typically get in a Para jumble question:
- 4 sentences labeled A, B, C, D
- Jumbled in random order
- No options provided (TITA format)
- You need to type the correct sequence, like “3142”, in the answer box
Sample CAT Parajumble Question (TITA Format)
Let’s solve one together:
Rearrange the following sentences to form a coherent paragraph:
A. Unlike other animals, dolphins are self-aware and can recognize themselves in mirrors.
B. This ability is often linked to intelligence and complex cognitive processes.
C. They can solve problems, understand symbolic language, and show empathy.
D. Such cognitive abilities are rare in the animal kingdom.
Step-by-Step Solving Strategy:
- Find the Opening Sentence:
- A sounds like an introduction—it introduces dolphins and a unique trait.
- ✅ Likely candidate: A
- Identify Logical Flow:
- B explains what that trait signifies → fits after A.
- D generalizes this into the animal kingdom → fits next.
- C gives more examples about dolphin intelligence → could be a good conclusion.
- Check Mandatory Pairs:
- A → B → D form a connected argument.
- C can be a concluding or supporting example.
- Final Order: A → B → D → C (Sequence: 1234)
Structure Analysis Table
| Sentence | Role in Paragraph |
| A | Opening – Introduces dolphins’ self-awareness |
| B | Explanation – Links the trait to intelligence |
| D | Generalization – Places trait in broader context |
| C | Example/Elaboration – Lists more intelligent behaviors |
What This Teaches You:
Parajumbles are like solving a mini jigsaw puzzle:
- You must see the big picture (overall topic or idea)
- Identify anchors (opening and closing sentences)
- Spot links between pairs or themes
CAT Tip from Tarkashastra Mentors:
“The best way to solve Parajumbles is to first eliminate the impossible. Once you know which sentence cannot start or cannot follow another, the right sequence often reveals itself.”
Quick Exercise: Try This!
Rearrange the following (Type the sequence in your notebook):
A. As a result, people are finding it harder to focus on a single task.
B. Attention spans have been decreasing in the digital era.
C. This phenomenon has concerned researchers and educators alike.
D. With constant notifications and multitasking, our brains are being rewired.
Answer: B → D → A → C
Core Concepts You Must Know Before Attempting Parajumbles
To consistently crack Parajumbles in CAT, it’s not enough to “read and guess.” You must train your brain to spot subtle clues determining sentence order. These clues aren’t always obvious but embedded in connectors, grammar structure, tone, and context.
Let’s break down the core concepts you should master to gain an edge in solving Parajumbles.
A. Sentence Connectors & Transition Words
Words like “however,” “therefore,” “but,” “moreover,” “thus” signal relationships between ideas. They help you determine:
- Contradiction (e.g., “however” implies contrast)
- Continuation (e.g., “moreover” adds more information)
- Cause-Effect (e.g., “therefore” follows a reason)
| Transition Word | Indicates | Example Usage |
| However | Contrast | A → B (shift in opinion) |
| Therefore | Result | A caused B |
| Moreover | Addition | A → B (supporting) |
| For example | Illustration | B supports A |
| In contrast | Opposite direction | A → B (opposing view) |
Tip: Sentences with connectors cannot be the first sentence in most cases.
B. Pronoun Clues (This, That, He, She, It, Such)
Sentences starting with pronouns usually refer back to something mentioned earlier. If a sentence begins with:
- “This discovery…”
- “He believed…”
- “Such behavior…”
…it cannot be the first sentence.
| Pronoun | Needs Antecedent? | Can be Sentence 1? |
| He / She / It | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| This / That / These / Those | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Proper noun (e.g., “Einstein” | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
C. Chronological Clues & Sequence Markers
Some paragraphs follow a timeline. Watch for time markers like:
- First, then, eventually, in 1999, later, since, now
They signal either a chronological progression or cause-effect order.
| Marker | Function |
| Initially / At first | Indicates start |
| Later / Then / Eventually | Middle or progress |
| Now / Today | Current state |
| Since / Because | Reason or explanation |
D. Subject-Verb Consistency & Topic Continuity
Sometimes, you can sequence sentences based on subject continuation:
- If two sentences talk about the same entity, they likely follow each other.
- Abrupt changes in the subject indicate a break — not a continuation.
For example:
- A: The stock market is volatile.
- B: This unpredictability worries investors.
- ✔️ Mandatory pair: A → B
E. Tone and Theme Matching
Ensure the tone of the sentences matches the position:
| Position | Tone Should Be |
| Opening | Neutral, broad, introductory |
| Middle | Supportive, analytical, argumentative |
| Ending | Summary, concluding insight, call to action |
If a sentence sounds like a wrap-up, it’s likely the closing sentence.
F. Identify Mandatory Pairs
Some sentences are logically inseparable and will always appear together.
Example:
- A: Plastic waste is polluting the oceans.
- B: As a result, marine animals often mistake plastic for food.
✔️ These are mandatory pairs: A → B
Learn to spot such relationships to reduce complexity from 24 possible combinations to a few strong candidates.
Summary Table: Core Concepts for Parajumbles
| Concept | How It Helps |
| Sentence Connectors | Show direction of logic (contrast, cause, addition) |
| Pronouns | Reveal backward linkage |
| Timeline Markers | Show natural order of events |
| Topic Continuity | Maintain subject flow across sentences |
| Tone & Theme | Determine beginning and end |
| Mandatory Pairs | Lock strong sentence sequences |
Tarkashastra Tip:
“If you can spot just one pair of sentences that must go together, your chances of getting the whole sequence correct shoot up by 60%.”
Top Strategies to Solve Parajumbles in CAT
Now that you understand the core concepts, let’s turn knowledge into action. This section gives you proven strategies 99+ percentilers and Tarkashastra mentors use to solve Parajumbles accurately under pressure.
Strategy 1: Identify the Opening Sentence First
The first sentence often:
- Introduces a broad topic
- Does not begin with a pronoun or transition word
- Doesn’t reference anything stated earlier
Tarkashastra Tip: Ask yourself, “Can this sentence make sense without any context?” If yes, it might be your opener.
Strategy 2: Spot Sentence Connectors to Track Logical Flow
Connectors indicate how ideas relate. Use them to:
- Link contrast (however, but)
- Show sequence (then, later)
- Add support (moreover, additionally)
- Explain causes (because, therefore)
Example:
- A: Artificial intelligence has grown rapidly.
- B: As a result, many jobs are being automated.
✔️ B follows A logically.
Strategy 3: Use Pronouns to Eliminate Wrong Sequences
Pronouns like he, she, it, this, and such always refer back to something previously mentioned. A sentence starting with a pronoun cannot be the first one.
Example:
- A: Marie Curie was a pioneer in radioactivity research.
- B: She won two Nobel Prizes for her discoveries.
✔️ B follows A.
❌ B cannot be first.
Strategy 4: Find Mandatory Pairs
Mandatory pairs are sentence pairs that must go together in a specific order due to:
- Cause-effect
- Statement-example
- Question-answer
- Subject-pronoun reference
How to Use:
- Scan for sentences with direct logical links.
- Once you lock a pair, your sequencing job is 50% done.
Strategy 5: Track Chronology or Progression
Look for time indicators (e.g., “initially,” “eventually,” “now”) or action sequences.
Example:
- A: At first, scientists believed the atom was indivisible.
- B: Later, discoveries showed otherwise.
- C: Today, atomic theory is more refined than ever.
Correct order: A → B → C
Strategy 6: Tone Matching for Start and End
Determine:
- Opening tone → broad, neutral, or introductory
- Ending tone → summary, inference, or concluding remark
Example Ending Sentences:
- “This proves how impactful early education can be.”
- “Such practices must be encouraged in the future.”
These are likely concluding statements.
Strategy 7: Use Elimination and Reordering in Practice
Even though CAT TITA has no options, train your brain to:
- Rule out impossible first sentences (e.g., those starting with “such,” “this,” or pronouns)
- Check if a sentence makes logical sense following another
Use pen and paper to write out all 4 sentence labels (A, B, C, D) and test possible orders.
Visual Strategy Table: What to Do When…
| Situation | Strategy |
| Sentence starts with a pronoun | Eliminate it as an opening sentence |
| Sentence begins with “however,” “but,” “although” | Check for contrast from the previous idea |
| Two sentences reference the same subject | Consider placing them together |
| One sentence sounds conclusive or summarizing | Try placing it at the end |
| You spot a cause-effect pair | Lock it as a mandatory pair |
Tarkashastra Mentor Insight:
“Sometimes, CAT sets all 4 sentences at the same tone and depth—no clear opener. In those cases, work backward: find the conclusion and eliminate dead-ends.”
Common Mistakes Students Make (And How to Avoid Them)
Even students with strong reading skills often get Parajumbles wrong, not because they don’t understand the sentences but because they fall into common traps.
Let’s look at the frequent mistakes that cost marks and time and simple ways to avoid them.
Mistake 1: Starting With Pronouns or Connectors
Why it’s a mistake:
Sentences beginning with this, such, he, however, etc., almost always refer to something earlier. If you place them first, your paragraph lacks a reference point.
Avoid It By:
Eliminating sentences with pronouns or conjunctions as potential openers.
Mistake 2: Ignoring Logical Flow
Why it’s a mistake:
Some students go by grammar or subject similarity without asking: “Does this idea naturally follow the previous one?”
Avoid It By:
Always asking: “Is there a cause-effect, example, or contrast relationship here?”
Mistake 3: Over-Relying on Grammar Alone
Why it’s a mistake:
CAT Parajumbles are designed to trick you. All the sentences are grammatically correct in any order — but not logically correct.
Avoid It By:
Focusing on context and meaning, not just syntax.
Mistake 4: Not Verifying the Full Paragraph
Why it’s a mistake:
Some students lock in the sequence after fixing 2 to 3 sentences and don’t check if the paragraph sounds coherent.
Avoid It By:
Reading the complete paragraph in your chosen order before finalizing the answer.
Mistake 5: Spending Too Much Time on One Question
Why it’s a mistake:
Parajumbles are time sinks. Without options, it’s easy to spend 4–5 minutes on one question—killing your Verbal section timing.
Avoid It By:
If stuck for more than 2 minutes, move on. Return later only if time permits.
Mistake 6: Ignoring Practice of TITA-Specific Questions
Why it’s a mistake:
Most books and websites use MCQ-based Parajumbles, which are easier than TITA. Practicing the wrong format creates false confidence.
Avoid It By:
Solving TITA-only Parajumble questions during mocks and topic tests.
Mistake vs Fix Table
| Common Mistake | Why It Happens | How to Fix It |
| Starting with a pronoun-based sentence | Misjudging it as an opener | Eliminate as opener; look for noun intro first |
| Using grammar logic only | Ignoring paragraph coherence | Focus on idea flow and sentence roles |
| Spending 5+ minutes on one question | Trying too hard to force logic | Time-box your effort and move on |
| Not practicing TITA | Book-based prep only | Use authentic TITA questions from mocks or PYQs |
| Ignoring verification | Overconfidence | Always read the full paragraph after sequencing |
Tarkashastra Tip:
“CAT is not about perfection; it’s about smart risk. If you don’t feel 90% sure about a Parajumble, skip it and come back later. It’s better than burning time.”
Tackling TITA Parajumbles: Specific Tips
The TITA (Type in the Answer) format has become the standard for Parajumbles in CAT since 2020. Unlike MCQs, TITA questions don’t provide options to guide or eliminate — you have to type the correct 4-digit sequence (like 2314) based solely on your reasoning.
While there’s no negative marking, this format brings its own set of challenges. Let’s look at how to handle them smartly.
What Makes TITA Parajumbles Different?
| Feature | TITA Format | MCQ Format |
| Answer Options | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Elimination Possible? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Guessing Useful? | 🚫 Risky (time sink) | ✅ Sometimes works |
| Negative Marking | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (-1) |
| CAT Usage (2020–2024) | ✅ Common | ❌ Rare |
How to Approach TITA Parajumbles Efficiently
1. Don’t Attempt All TITA Parajumbles
Just because there’s no negative marking doesn’t mean you must attempt it all. If you don’t see a clear opening sentence or a logical flow in the first 90 seconds, move on.
Come back if time permits.
2. Lock Mandatory Pairs First
Rather than trying to fix the whole order right away:
- Find two sentences that must go together
- Check which order makes sense
- Use this pair as an anchor
3. Use Pencil & Rough Pad
Always use your CAT exam rough sheet to:
- Write sentence labels (A, B, C, D)
- List possible orders
- Eliminate impossible combinations
This helps you visualize the logic better than just reading on screen.
4. Avoid Random Guessing
Typing “1234” because you’re running out of time? Bad idea. TITA questions waste time if approached without confidence, even though they don’t penalize.
Attempt only when:
- You can identify the first sentence clearly
- You’re confident of at least one sentence pair
- The paragraph flows smoothly in your mind
5. Practice Typing TITA Answers
In actual CAT, you’ll need to type your answer manually. During mocks or practice:
- Practice typing sequences like 3142 accurately and quickly
- Use mock interfaces that simulate the CAT layout
Quick Checklist Before Submitting a TITA Parajumble
| Question | If YES, Proceed |
| Do I know the opening sentence with confidence? | ✅ |
| Can I form at least one mandatory pair? | ✅ |
| Does the paragraph flow logically when read aloud? | ✅ |
| Have I ruled out illogical orders? | ✅ |
| Am I under 2 minutes on this question? | ✅ |
If you answered “NO” to two or more, skip it and return it later.
Tarkashastra Mentor Note:
“TITA is where toppers win. If you can solve even 1 out of 2 Parajumbles correctly, you’re already ahead of 70% of the competition. But don’t treat it like a puzzle game—treat it like logic-based reading.”
Time Management Strategy for Parajumbles
Parajumbles are high rewards but high risk in terms of time. Because of the TITA format, they don’t penalize wrong answers — but over-investing time in a single tricky Parajumble can derail your entire Verbal Ability section.
That’s why having a clear time management approach is just as important as knowing the solving techniques.
Ideal Time Allocation per Parajumble
| Action | Time Limit |
| Quick Read of All 4 Sentences | 15–20 seconds |
| Identifying Opener & Pairs | 30–45 seconds |
| Finalizing Sequence | 30–45 seconds |
| Total per Question | 1.5 to 2 minutes max |
Hard Stop: If you cross the 2-minute mark and still aren’t confident, skip and revisit later.
When to Attempt Parajumbles During the Section?
CAT Verbal Ability has three major question types:
- Reading Comprehension (RC)
- Parajumbles (TITA)
- Summary & Odd Sentence Out (TITA)
Recommended Attempt Order:
| Priority | Question Type | Why |
| 1️⃣ | Reading Comprehension | High weightage, more structured |
| 2️⃣ | Summary / Odd One Out | Usually easier, 1-minute average |
| 3️⃣ | Parajumbles | High effort, low accuracy if rushed |
Strategy: Attempt Parajumbles only after RCs and easier TITA types.
Smart Parajumble Selection in the Exam
Not all Parajumbles are equally challenging. Learn to select wisely:
| Indicator | What It Means | Action |
| Clear intro sentence visible | Easy-medium | Attempt |
| Confusing pronoun chains | High effort | Skip for now |
| All four sentences use same subject | Medium | Try once |
| No logical flow after 1 read | Tough | Skip and return later |
Time-Wasting Traps to Avoid
| Trap | Why It’s Costly | Better Approach |
| Reading the set repeatedly | Wastes time without clarity | Switch to identifying connectors and pairs |
| Forcing a sequence with no clue | Drains time with low accuracy | Skip and revisit later |
| Rechecking sequence 4+ times | Indicates lack of flow | Trust logic and move on |
Sample Time Strategy for VA Section (40 minutes total)
| Section | Time Allocation |
| Reading Comprehension (4–5 sets) | 25–28 mins |
| Summary & Odd Sentence Out | 6–7 mins |
| Parajumbles (2–3 questions) | 5–7 mins total |
Target: Attempt 1–2 Parajumbles confidently, rather than all 3 with guesswork.
Tarkashastra Tip:
“Treat Parajumbles like puzzles at the end of the exam. Low-risk, high reward, but not worth sabotaging the main RC scoring zone.”
Para jumble Practice Strategy (Day-wise Plan)
Parajumbles are a unique skill set within CAT Verbal, and like any skill, they require targeted consistent practice. The trick is to move from concept-based solving to instinct-based recognition — so you can quickly identify the opener, mandatory pairs, and logical flow under 90 seconds.
Below is a 4-week strategy designed by Tarkashastra mentors to build your accuracy and speed for TITA-based Parajumbles.
Week-by-Week Plan to Master Parajumbles
| Week | Focus Area | Activities |
| Week 1 | Fundamentals | Learn core concepts (connectors, pronouns, chronology)Solve 5 basic-level Parajumbles per day (with solutions)Watch 2 mentor-led strategy videos |
| Week 2 | Intermediate Practice | Start identifying mandatory pairs & openersPractice 7–8 moderate-level Parajumbles dailyWrite down your logic for each question (reflection practice) |
| Week 3 | TITA-Only Practice | Shift to 100% TITA-type questions (no options)Use past CAT papers and mock test platformsTime yourself (max 2 mins/question) |
| Week 4 | Full VA-RC Integration | Mix Parajumbles into full-length Verbal practice setsTarget 2/3 accuracy consistentlyAnalyze time spent and accuracy post-mock |
Tips to Maximize Your Practice
- Maintain a Practice Journal: Log every Parajumble you solve with sequence, reason, and mistakes.
- Use CAT Mock Platforms: Choose platforms that simulate the TITA format interface.
- Weekly Review: End each week by revisiting the 10 most challenging questions you got wrong and resolving them.
- Shadow Solve: After seeing the solution, try to resolve the set without looking — test if your brain is learning flow patterns.
Useful Resources to Practice Parajumbles
| Platform | Type | Why Use It |
| Tarkashastra Free Online CAT Series | Online Class | Learn methods with mentor guidance |
| Previous Year CAT Papers (PDF) | Authentic Source | Real exam-level TITA practice |
| Arun Sharma VARC Book (Latest Edition) | Book | Good conceptual foundation with examples |
| Tarkashastra Practice Portal | Online Topic Tests | Parajumble-dedicated sectional tests |
| Tarkashastra Mocks | Mock Tests | Realistic mocks with time tracking |
Tarkashastra Mentor Insight:
“The biggest difference between a 70%ile and a 99%ile in Verbal isn’t vocabulary — it’s pattern recognition and time discipline. Train your brain to recognize structure, not just read it.”
Resources for Parajumble Practice
To crack Parajumbles with consistency, you need two things:
- The right kind of questions — ideally TITA format
- Structured, mentor-guided support — to avoid forming bad habits
Here’s a curated list of practice resources recommended by our mentors at Tarkashastra to help you master Parajumbles, even if you’re starting from scratch.
Official and Open Resources
| Resource | Type | How It Helps |
| CAT Previous Year Papers | PDF / Booklet | Best way to understand real exam difficulty and question format. Focus on VA TITA sections (2017–2024). |
| Tarkashastra Free Online CAT Series | YouTube + WhatsApp | Includes dedicated sessions on solving Parajumbles with logic, time strategy, and doubt resolution. |
| Tarkashastra VA-RC Practice Sheets | Downloadable PDF | Curated sets of 10–15 Parajumble questions per level (introductory to CAT-level), with expert solutions. |
| Google News Editorials | Reading Source | Daily reading from The Hindu, Indian Express, and BBC builds intuition for sentence flow and paragraph structure. |
| Your Own Parajumble Journal | Self-made | Track all questions solved, final answers, what went wrong, and lessons learned. Revisiting these will double your learning. |
Suggested Books (Independent Authors)
| Book Title | Purpose |
| How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT by Arun Sharma | Includes structured Parajumble exercises with explanation-based learning |
| Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis (for beginners) | Helps build comfort with sentence flow and verbal structures, especially for those from non-English backgrounds |
Note: Use these books only as supplements — for CAT-level readiness, actual TITA practice is non-negotiable.
How to Combine These Resources Effectively
| Activity | Frequency | Tool |
| Para jumble Practice (10 questions) | Daily | Tarkashastra Sheets / PYQs |
| Guided Learning | 3–4 times a week | LIVE Sessions / YouTube |
| Error Review | Weekly | Personal Journal |
| Reading for Flow & Tone | Daily (30 mins) | Editorials |
Tarkashastra Tip:
“Use a mix of active solving and passive reading to master Parajumbles. Solving builds technique; reading builds intuition.”
Final Tips from Tarkashastra Mentors
At Tarkashastra, we’ve mentored hundreds of students to 95+ and even 99+ percentile scores in CAT Verbal. Parajumbles, though tricky, are one of the most improbable areas — if you avoid common traps and apply the proper habits consistently.
Below are our most critical Parajumble-specific tips, straight from the desks of our top faculty and students.
Mentor Tips That Work
1. Accuracy Over Attempt Rate
“Don’t attempt all Parajumbles just because they don’t have negative marking. Instead, attempt only those where you’ve spotted a logical anchor — like a clear opening sentence or mandatory pair.”
Ideal strategy: Solve 1 or 2 Parajumbles with high accuracy rather than all 3 with 50-50 guessing.
2. Learn to Work Backwards
“If no opening sentence stands out, look for a possible conclusion sentence or strong mandatory pair. Build your sequence in reverse.”
Especially useful when all 4 sentences seem equally ‘neutral.’
3. Read Aloud in Your Mind
“Mentally reading the paragraph in your arranged order helps check for abrupt jumps or tonal mismatches.”
If something feels off, it probably is.
4. Time Discipline is Non-Negotiable
“Don’t give more than 2 minutes to a single Parajumble. In Verbal, time is your most valuable currency.”
Set a timer during practice. Train your brain to make decisions faster, not just solve better.
5. Revise the Ones You Got Wrong
“You improve not by solving more questions, but by revisiting the ones you got wrong and deeply understanding the logic behind the right order.”
Create a personal error log: what went wrong and what you’ll do differently next time.
From Our Past Students
- “I hated Parajumbles in my first 10 mocks. Then I started looking for just one pair in each set. That clicked. My accuracy jumped from 30% to 80%.” — Mehak, 98.2%ile in VARC, CAT 2023
- “Treat them like logic puzzles, not English questions. The moment I started asking ‘what idea follows logically next?’ instead of ‘what sounds good,’ my scores improved.” — Ravi, 99.4%ile in VARC, CAT 2022
Tarkashastra Takeaway:
“Don’t fear Parajumbles. Respect them. Prepare for them. Practice them. But above all, approach them logically — not emotionally.”
Conclusion: Your Roadmap to Parajumble Mastery
Parajumbles are not vocabulary traps or grammar tests — they’re logic games in disguise. If you’ve read this far, you now know:
- What Parajumbles really test
- Why CAT makes them tricky (especially TITA format)
- How to break down each question using proven strategies
- Which mistakes to avoid
- And how to build a day-wise, exam-oriented practice plan
At Tarkashastra, we believe in practical, high-ROI preparation and Parajumbles are a perfect example. With just 10–15 minutes of innovative daily practice, you can:
- Raise your VARC accuracy
- Avoid common time traps
- And gain an edge in a section where most students struggle
Final Advice from Team Tarkashastra
“The only way to win at Parajumbles is through pattern recognition. That pattern comes from solving, reviewing, and reflecting — not guessing.”
What’s Next?
If you’re serious about improving your Verbal Ability performance for CAT 2025, we invite you to: Join Tarkashastra’s Free CAT 2025 Online Series
- Daily sessions on VARC, DILR, and QA
- Exclusive Parajumble workshops
- Doubt-solving with expert mentors
Book a 1-on-1 Mentorship Call
Get personalized guidance on improving your weak areas in Verbal, especially TITA questions.
Schedule a Free Call
One Last Reminder:
Parajumbles can be confusing — but with strategy, they can also be your scoring weapon. Stay consistent, solve smart, and keep improving. Team Tarkashastra is with you at every step of your CAT journey.
FAQs: How to Tackle CAT Parajumbles
1. What Are Parajumbles In The CAT Exam?
Parajumbles are questions that provide 4–5 jumbled sentences, which you must rearrange to form a logical and coherent paragraph. In CAT, they are usually asked in the TITA (Type In The Answer) format without any options.
2. How Many Parajumble Questions Appear In CAT?
On average, CAT features 2–3 Parajumble questions in the Verbal Ability section, all of which are TITA-based (no options, no negative marking).
3. Why Are Parajumbles Considered Difficult In CAT?
They’re tricky because there are no answer options, multiple sequences may seem correct, and many sentences contain subtle logical clues that are easy to miss without a strategy.
4. Is There a Negative Marking In TITA-Based Parajumbles?
No negative marking for TITA (Type in the Answer) questions, including Parajumbles. However, they can still cost you valuable time if handled poorly.
5. What Skills Do Parajumbles Test In CAT?
They assess your logical sequencing, contextual understanding, sentence connectors, pronoun referencing, and ability to eliminate incoherent structures.
6. How Should I Start Solving A Parajumble Question?
Begin by identifying the opening sentence that introduces the topic and doesn’t refer to anything previously stated. Then, look for mandatory sentence pairs that logically go together.
7. Can A Sentence Start With “This” Or “Such” Be The First One?
Rarely. Sentences starting with pronouns like “this,” “he,” “such,” or “they” typically refer to something mentioned earlier and are not suitable as openers.
8. How Much Time Should I Spend On Each Parajumble?
Ideally, spend 1.5 to 2 minutes per Parajumbles. If you’re stuck beyond that, skip it and return later if time allows.
9. What If All Sentences Seem Similar In Tone?
In such cases, try identifying the conclusion sentence or a cause-effect pair and work backward to build the sequence from the end to the beginning.
10. Should I Attempt All Parajumbles Since There’s No Negative Marking?
No. You should attempt only those where you’re reasonably confident. Blind guessing can waste time better spent on RC or summary questions.
11. How Can I Improve My Accuracy In Parajumbles?
Practice identifying mandatory pairs, using transition words, and reading complete paragraphs after sequencing. Also, maintain a log of mistakes to learn from them.
12. Are MCQ-Based Parajumbles Still Asked In CAT?
No, MCQ-based Parajumbles have been phased out. Since 2020, CAT has focused only on TITA-type Parajumbles, which are more logic-driven and do not offer options.
13. What Resources Should I Use To Practice CAT Parajumbles?
Use Tarkashastra’s Free Online CAT Series, Previous Year’s CAT Papers, Tarkashastra Practice Sheets, and daily editorials from trusted sources to improve paragraph intuition.
14. Can Parajumbles Be Mastered Without A Strong Vocabulary?
Yes. Vocabulary helps, but Parajumbles are primarily about logic and structure, not difficult words. Focus on connectors, flow, and coherence.
15. What’s The Best Way To Prepare For Parajumbles In 30 Days?
Follow a 4-week plan:
- Week 1: Learn core concepts
- Week 2: Practice 7–8 questions/day
- Week 3: Shift to TITA-only practice
- Week 4: Integrate with complete VA section mocks
