CAT 2021 Slot 3 · VARC · Question 21

CAT 2021 Slot 3 previous year question on Para Summary, with the answer and a step-by-step solution.

Para SummaryVerbal AbilityMultiple choiceMedium

The passage given below is followed by four alternate summaries. Choose the option that best captures the essence of the passage.

Brazil’s growth rate has been low, yet most Brazilians say their financial situation has improved, and they expect it to get even better. This is because most incomes are rising fast, with higher minimum wages and very low unemployment. The result is falling inequality and a growing middle class — the result of economic stabilization, improved social security and universal primary education. But despite recent improvements the Brazilian economy is still painfully unequal, with poor Brazilians paying the biggest share of their income in taxes and getting the least back in government services.

  1. A

    Economic reforms have benefitted many Brazilians, but they are unaware of the impending problems from rising inequalities in their society.

  2. B

    Good economic indicators have masked the unfair taxation of the poor that is likely to destabilise the Brazilian economy in the next few years.

  3. C

    Most Brazilians feel they have benefitted from recent economic events, but the poor continue to be dealt unfairly by the state.

  4. D

    With rising incomes and falling unemployment, most Brazilians are being misled into thinking that their economy is doing well.

Pick an option, then check.
Answer & solution

Answer: Option C

The passage says:
- Despite low growth, most Brazilians feel better off because incomes are rising, unemployment is low and inequality is falling.
- 'But' the economy is still unequal: the poor pay the largest share of income in taxes and get the least in services.

Option 3 captures both parts: most Brazilians feel they have benefited, but the state still treats the poor unfairly.

Option 1 says inequality is 'rising' – the passage says it is falling.

Option 2 predicts destabilisation in the next few years, which the passage never says.

Option 4 says Brazilians are being 'misled' – the passage says their incomes really are rising.

Shortcut: a good summary keeps the positive point and the 'But', and adds no predictions.

Hence, the answer is option 3.

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