CAT 2012 Question Paper was conducted for 21 days from October 11 to November 6, 2012. The question paper had 2 sections namely, Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning and Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation. Each section had 30 questions with a designated time slot of 70 minutes.
Candidates preparing for CAT 2025 can download the CAT VARC question paper with the solution PDF for the Slot 2 exam to get a better idea about the type of questions asked in the paper and their difficulty level.
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CAT 2012 VARC Slot 2 Question Paper with solution PDF
CAT 2012 VARC Slot 2 Question Paper with Answer Key | Download PDF | Check Solutions |

Which word is most nearly the same in meaning as "ephemeral"?
View Solution
- Step 1: Understand the meaning of "ephemeral": something short-lived or lasting for a brief time.
- Step 2: Evaluate options: (1) Permanent means lasting forever, opposite of ephemeral. (2) Transient means short-lived, matching ephemeral. (3) Eternal means infinite duration, opposite. (4) Enduring means long-lasting, opposite.
- Step 3: Transient is the closest synonym.
- Step 4: Option (2) is correct.
Quick Tip: For synonym questions, eliminate antonyms and focus on words with similar meanings.
Choose the grammatically correct sentence:
View Solution
- Step 1: Analyze subject-verb agreement. Subject "She" is third-person singular, requiring "doesn’t" for negation and base verb form.
- Step 2: Option (1): "don’t" is incorrect (used for plural/I/you). Option (2): "doesn’t likes" is incorrect (verb should be "like"). Option (3): "doesn’t like" is correct. Option (4): "don’t likes" is incorrect (wrong auxiliary and verb form).
- Step 3: Option (3) is grammatically correct.
Quick Tip: Ensure subject-verb agreement and correct auxiliary usage in negative sentences.
The sentence "His decision was based on principle" is best replaced by:
View Solution
- Step 1: Identify the preposition and phrasing. "Based on" is correct but can be improved for style.
- Step 2: Option (1): "Grounded in" is a stronger, formal synonym. Option (2): "Depend on" is incorrect (missing "ed"). Option (3): "Based at" is incorrect preposition. Option (4): "Founded by" is incorrect (implies agency).
- Step 3: Option (1) is the best replacement.
Quick Tip: For sentence improvement, check prepositions and verb forms for accuracy and style.
Arrange the sentences to form a coherent paragraph:
A. It also fosters innovation.
B. Education empowers individuals.
C. It enables critical thinking.
D. Society benefits from educated citizens.
View Solution
- Step 1: Identify the topic sentence. B introduces education’s role, suitable as the opening.
- Step 2: C and A explain how education empowers (critical thinking, innovation), forming a logical flow.
- Step 3: D concludes with the broader impact on society.
- Step 4: Sequence B, C, A, D creates coherence: Education empowers (B), through critical thinking (C) and innovation (A), benefiting society (D).
- Step 5: Option (1) is correct.
Quick Tip: In para-jumbles, start with the topic sentence and ensure logical flow.
What is the antonym of "ameliorate"?
View Solution
- Step 1: "Ameliorate" means to improve or make better.
- Step 2: Evaluate options: (1) Improve is a synonym. (2) Worsen is the opposite. (3) Maintain means no change. (4) Enhance is a synonym.
- Step 3: Option (2) is correct.
Quick Tip: For antonyms, recall the word’s meaning and eliminate synonyms.
Fill in the blank: The speaker’s......... tone captivated the audience.
View Solution
- Step 1: "Captivated" implies a positive, engaging effect.
- Step 2: Option (1): Monotonous means dull, not captivating. Option (2): Eloquent means expressive and persuasive, fitting the context. Option (3): Harsh is negative. Option (4): Timid suggests lack of confidence.
- Step 3: Option (2) is correct.
Quick Tip: Use context clues to choose words that match the tone of the sentence.
Which sentence is grammatically incorrect?
View Solution
- Step 1: Check subject-verb agreement.
- Step 2: Option (1): "Neither" is singular, so "are" is incorrect; should be "is." Option (2): "Each" is singular, but "their" is acceptable in modern usage. Option (3): "Team" is singular, "is" is correct. Option (4): "She and I" is correct.
- Step 3: Option (1) is incorrect.
Quick Tip: For "neither" or "either," use singular verbs in formal English.
The word "ubiquitous" means:
View Solution
- Step 1: "Ubiquitous" means present everywhere.
- Step 2: Option (1): Rare is the opposite. Option (2): Everywhere matches. Option (3): Hidden is unrelated. Option (4): Temporary is unrelated.
- Step 3: Option (2) is correct.
Quick Tip: Learn common vocabulary words and their meanings for quick recall.
Identify the error in the sentence: "The data was interpreted incorrect."
View Solution
- Step 1: Analyze "data was": "Data" is plural, so it should be "were."
- Step 2: Analyze "interpreted incorrect": "Incorrect" is an adjective; should be "incorrectly" (adverb).
- Step 3: Both errors exist. Option (4) is correct.
Quick Tip: Check for subject-verb agreement and correct part of speech in sentence correction.
What does "mitigate" mean in the sentence: "Steps were taken to mitigate the crisis"?
View Solution
- Step 1: "Mitigate" means to reduce severity.
- Step 2: Option (1): Worsen is opposite. Option (2): Resolve implies complete solution, too strong. Option (3): Lessen matches. Option (4): Ignore is unrelated.
- Step 3: Option (3) is correct.
Quick Tip: Contextual meaning is key for vocabulary questions; choose the closest fit.
Arrange the sentences:
A. It reduces stress.
B. Exercise improves health.
C. It boosts mental clarity.
D. Regular workouts enhance mood.
View Solution
- Step 1: B introduces the topic of exercise and health.
- Step 2: D, A, C elaborate benefits (mood, stress, clarity), with logical progression from mood to mental benefits.
- Step 3: Sequence B, D, A, C flows naturally.
- Step 4: Option (2) is correct.
Quick Tip: Group related ideas in para-jumbles for smooth transitions.
Choose the correct word: The policy had a......... effect on growth.
View Solution
- Step 1: "Growth" suggests a positive context.
- Step 2: Option (1): Detrimental means harmful. Option (2): Beneficial means advantageous. Option (3): Neutral means no effect. Option (4): Temporary is unrelated.
- Step 3: Option (2) fits best.
Quick Tip: Choose words that align with the implied tone of the sentence.
Which sentence is grammatically correct?
View Solution
- Step 1: Subject pronouns use nominative case ("I," "he").
- Step 2: Option (1): "Me" is incorrect. Option (2): "He and I" is correct. Option (3): "Him" is incorrect. Option (4): "Me" is incorrect.
- Step 3: Option (2) is correct.
Quick Tip: Use nominative pronouns for subjects and objective pronouns for objects.
What is the meaning of "pragmatic"?
View Solution
- Step 1: "Pragmatic" means dealing with things realistically and practically.
- Step 2: Option (1): Idealistic is opposite. Option (2): Practical matches. Option (3): Emotional is unrelated. Option (4): Theoretical is opposite.
- Step 3: Option (2) is correct.
Quick Tip: Understand nuanced meanings of adjectives to choose correctly.
Identify the error: "The team are planning a meeting."
View Solution
- Step 1: "Team" is a collective noun, singular in this context, requiring "is."
- Step 2: Option (1): "team are" is incorrect. Option (2): "planning a" is correct. Option (3): Incorrect due to verb error. Option (4): "a meeting" is correct.
- Step 3: Option (1) is correct.
Quick Tip: Treat collective nouns as singular unless referring to individual members.
The politician’s speech was described as..........
View Solution
- Step 1: A politician’s speech is likely positive if highlighted.
- Step 2: Option (1): Eloquent means well-spoken, positive. Option (2): Tedious means boring. Option (3): Abrupt means sudden. Option (4): Vague means unclear.
- Step 3: Option (1) is correct.
Quick Tip: Choose adjectives that match the implied context of the sentence.
What is the synonym of "obfuscate"?
View Solution
- Step 1: "Obfuscate" means to make unclear or confusing.
- Step 2: Option (1): Clarify is opposite. Option (2): Confuse matches. Option (3): Simplify is opposite. Option (4): Explain is opposite.
- Step 3: Option (2) is correct.
Quick Tip: For synonyms, eliminate opposites and match exact meanings.
Choose the correct sentence:
View Solution
- Step 1: Non-restrictive clauses use "which" with commas, without "it."
- Step 2: Option (1): "it" is redundant. Option (2): Correct structure. Option (3): Missing commas and "it" is redundant. Option (4): "That" is incorrect for non-restrictive clauses.
- Step 3: Option (2) is correct.
Quick Tip: Use "which" with commas for non-restrictive clauses; avoid redundant pronouns.
What is the meaning of "cognizant"?
View Solution
- Step 1: "Cognizant" means being aware or knowledgeable.
- Step 2: Option (1): Ignorant is opposite. Option (2): Aware matches. Option (3): Confused is unrelated. Option (4): Forgetful is opposite.
- Step 3: Option (2) is correct.
Quick Tip: Memorize meanings of commonly tested words like "cognizant."
Arrange the sentences:
A. Technology drives progress.
B. It creates new opportunities.
C. Challenges arise from misuse.
D. Responsible use is essential.
View Solution
- Step 1: A introduces technology’s role.
- Step 2: B elaborates on benefits, C discusses challenges, D concludes with a solution.
- Step 3: Sequence A, B, C, D is logical.
- Step 4: Option (1) is correct.
Quick Tip: In para-jumbles, follow a problem-solution or cause-effect structure.
The company’s......... approach led to success.
View Solution
- Step 1: "Success" suggests a positive approach.
- Step 2: Option (1): Conservative may not lead to success. Option (2): Innovative implies creativity, fitting success. Option (3): Reckless is negative. Option (4): Indifferent is neutral.
- Step 3: Option (2) is correct.
Quick Tip: Match adjectives to the outcome described in the sentence.
What is the antonym of "tenuous"?
View Solution
- Step 1: "Tenuous" means weak or thin.
- Step 2: Option (1): Weak is a synonym. Option (2): Strong is opposite. Option (3): Fragile is similar. Option (4): Uncertain is unrelated.
- Step 3: Option (2) is correct.
Quick Tip: For antonyms, focus on the primary meaning of the word.
Identify the error: "Every employee have completed their task."
View Solution
- Step 1: "Every employee" is singular, requiring "has."
- Step 2: Option (1): "employee have" is incorrect. Option (2): "their task" is acceptable. Option (3): Incorrect due to verb error. Option (4): "completed their" is correct.
- Step 3: Option (1) is correct.
Quick Tip: Use singular verbs with "every" or "each."
What does "ameliorate" mean in: "The new policy will ameliorate conditions"?
View Solution
- Step 1: "Ameliorate" means to make better.
- Step 2: Option (1): Worsen is opposite. Option (2): Improve matches. Option (3): Maintain is neutral. Option (4): Ignore is unrelated.
- Step 3: Option (2) is correct.
Quick Tip: Use sentence context to confirm vocabulary meanings.
Choose the correct sentence:
View Solution
- Step 1: "Data" is plural, requiring "are."
- Step 2: Option (1): "is" is incorrect. Option (2): "are" is correct. Option (3): "was" is incorrect. Option (4): "were" is correct but past tense, not implied.
- Step 3: Option (2) is correct.
Quick Tip: Treat "data" as plural in formal English.
What is the synonym of "disparate"?
View Solution
- Step 1: "Disparate" means distinctly different.
- Step 2: Option (1): Similar is opposite. Option (2): Different matches. Option (3): Equal is unrelated. Option (4): Alike is opposite.
- Step 3: Option (2) is correct.
Quick Tip: For synonyms, eliminate opposites and match nuances.
The decision was......... by the committee.
View Solution
- Step 1: Context implies a positive or definitive decision.
- Step 2: Option (1): Unanimous means agreed by all, fitting. Option (2): Divided suggests disagreement. Option (3): Delayed is unrelated. Option (4): Rejected is negative.
- Step 3: Option (1) is correct.
Quick Tip: Choose words that align with the sentence’s implied outcome.
What is the antonym of "prolific"?
View Solution
- Step 1: "Prolific" means producing much or abundantly.
- Step 2: Option (1): Productive is similar. Option (2): Scarce means limited, opposite. Option (3): Abundant is similar. Option (4): Fertile is similar.
- Step 3: Option (2) is correct.
Quick Tip: For antonyms, focus on words that indicate scarcity versus abundance.
Identify the error: "She has less books than me."
View Solution
- Step 1: In comparisons, use "I" after "than" for subject.
- Step 2: Option (1): "has less" is correct with "books." Option (2): "books than" is correct. Option (3): "than me" should be "than I." Option (4): Incorrect due to pronoun error.
- Step 3: Option (3) is correct.
Quick Tip: Use "I" after "than" in comparisons when it acts as the subject.
What does "exacerbate" mean?
View Solution
- Step 1: "Exacerbate" means to make worse.
- Step 2: Option (1): Alleviate is opposite. Option (2): Worsen matches. Option (3): Resolve is unrelated. Option (4): Ignore is unrelated.
- Step 3: Option (2) is correct.
Quick Tip: Learn words with opposite meanings (e.g., exacerbate vs. alleviate) together.
Choose the correct sentence:
View Solution
- Step 1: "Whom" is used for objects, "who" for subjects.
- Step 2: Option (1): "Who" is incorrect. Option (2): "Whom" is correct. Option (3): Missing auxiliary "did." Option (4): Incomplete sentence.
- Step 3: Option (2) is correct.
Quick Tip: Use "whom" for the object of a verb or preposition.
What is the synonym of "resilient"?
View Solution
- Step 1: "Resilient" means able to recover or adapt.
- Step 2: Option (1): Fragile is opposite. Option (2): Adaptable matches. Option (3): Rigid is opposite. Option (4): Weak is opposite.
- Step 3: Option (2) is correct.
Quick Tip: For synonyms, focus on words that imply flexibility or strength.
The manager’s decision was..........
View Solution
- Step 1: Context implies a positive or reasoned decision.
- Step 2: Option (1): Arbitrary means random. Option (2): Justified means reasoned, fitting. Option (3): Delayed is unrelated. Option (4): Vague is negative.
- Step 3: Option (2) is correct.
Quick Tip: Choose words that align with the sentence’s implied reasoning.
Identify the error: "The committee have decided to proceed."
View Solution
- Step 1: "Committee" is singular, requiring "has."
- Step 2: Option (1): "committee have" is incorrect. Option (2): "decided to" is correct. Option (3): Incorrect due to verb error. Option (4): "to proceed" is correct.
- Step 3: Option (1) is correct.
Quick Tip: Use singular verbs for collective nouns like "committee."
Also Check:
CAT 2012 Question Paper Analysis
CAT 2012 Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning Question Paper Analysis
The Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning section of CAT 2012 Question Paper was rated moderate. The questions in Verbal Ability covered every topic of English Usage.
- The Reading Comprehension part of CAT 2012 Question Paper was manageable. There were 3 passages in which 1 was tough.
- The verbal Ability part had a good mix of questions from various areas.
- Family Trees, Propositions, Assumptions have got the highest weightage in Logical Reasoning.
Students should follow the below table for a better understanding of question distribution
Topic | Number of Questions | Difficulty Level |
---|---|---|
Reading Comprehension | 10 | Moderate |
Sentence Correction | 2 | Moderate |
Para Jumble | 2 | Moderate |
Paragraph Summary | 2 | Moderate |
Fill in the Blanks | 1 | Moderate |
Word Usage | 2 | Moderate |
Para jumble (Odd sentence out) | 2 | Moderate |
Logical Puzzle | 3 | Moderate |
Arrangements | 6 | Moderate |
CAT 2012 Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation Question Paper Analysis
The Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation section of the CAT 2012 Question Paper was based on various topics and difficult calculations.
- The question Paper had 21 questions from Quantitative Aptitude and 9 questions from Data Interpretation in both slots.
- This section was a little bit difficult compared to the other section.
- Questions from Quantitative Ability came from regular topics like Number System, Algebra, Geometry, Modern Math, and Arithmetic.
- Questions from Data Interpretation were not easy, it involved some tough calculations.
- The DI part of the question paper had questions in sets of 3.
Students should follow the below table for a better understanding of question distribution
Topics | Number of Questions | Difficulty Level |
---|---|---|
Line Graph | 3 | Difficult |
Pie Chart | 3 | Difficult |
Tables | 3 | Difficult |
Number System | 2 | Moderate |
Algebra | 6 | Moderate |
Arithmetic | 4 | Moderate |
Modern Math | 3 | Moderate |
Geometry and Mensuration | 6 | Moderate |
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