How to Score 180+ Marks in CUET English: Complete Strategy, Topics, Books & Smart Preparation Plan

 

How to Score 180+ Marks in CUET English: Complete Strategy, Topics, Books & Smart Preparation Plan

Scoring 180+ marks in CUET English is very much achievable with the right preparation strategy, focused practice, and smart exam-day decisions. As per previous years’ analysis, the CUET English difficulty level ranges from easy to moderate, which gives well-prepared students a strong chance to score high.

However, since 1 mark is deducted for every incorrect answer, accuracy is as important as speed. Below is a complete, exam-oriented guide covering topics, preparation tips, books, previous year trends, and practical strategies to help you cross the 180+ mark confidently.

Understanding CUET English Exam Pattern First

Before starting preparation, candidates must clearly understand the exam structure:

• Total Questions: 50 MCQs
• Marks: 200
• Marking Scheme:
  +5 for correct answer
  –1 for incorrect answer
• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
• Major Sections:
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Vocabulary
  • Grammar & Verbal Ability

Because of negative marking, attempting fewer but accurate questions is often more beneficial than blind guessing.

Key Strategy to Score 180+ in CUET English

To score 180+ marks, you should aim for:

• 36–38 correct answers
• Minimal negative marking
• Strong performance in Reading Comprehension and Vocabulary

Accuracy + consistency = high score.

CUET English Important Topics (High-Weightage Areas)

Candidates must prioritise topics from which maximum questions are repeatedly asked.

1. Vocabulary (Very High Weightage)

Sub-topics to focus on:

• Synonyms
• Antonyms
• One-Word Substitution
• Idioms & Phrases
• Phrasal Verbs
• Word Analogy
• Match the Column
• Spelling Errors
• Figures of Speech

👉 Vocabulary-based questions alone can contribute 8–10 questions in the paper.

2. Grammar & Verbal Ability

Important grammar topics include:

• Tenses
• Verbs
• Prepositions
• Error Spotting
• Active & Passive Voice
• Para Jumbles
• Fill in the Blanks (Tense, Modal, Adverbs)

These questions are usually direct and rule-based, making them scoring if basics are clear.

3. Reading Comprehension (RC)

RC is the most decisive section for scoring 180+.

Types of passages:

• Factual
• Narrative
• Literary
• Poetry extracts

Question types:

• Inference-based questions
• Vocabulary-in-context
• Literary devices
• Synonyms and antonyms from passage
• Phrase meaning

👉 Usually 4 passages with 10–12 questions appear in the paper.

CUET English Previous Year Paper Analysis (2025 Trend)

Topic	Number of Questions
Reading Comprehension	4 passages (10–12 questions)
Rearrangement / Para Jumbles	8–10
Synonyms & Antonyms	7–8
One-Word Substitution	6–7
Vocabulary-based	8–10
Homophones	5
Phrasal Verbs	3–4
Idioms & Phrases	1–2
Fill in the Blanks	5

This clearly shows Vocabulary + RC = majority of the paper.

CUET English Preparation Tips (Proven & Practical)

1. Start with the Latest Syllabus

Always study according to the official CUET English syllabus, exam duration, marking scheme, and question format.

2. Focus on High-Scoring Topics First

Do not spend equal time on all topics. Prioritise:

• Reading Comprehension
• Vocabulary
• Phrasal Verbs
• One-word substitution

3. Practice Reading Comprehension Daily

• Solve at least 2–3 RC passages daily
• Focus on accuracy first, speed later
• Avoid assumptions; answers are always from the passage

Reading newspapers, editorials, short stories, and novels helps immensely.

4. Strengthen Vocabulary Smartly

• Learn words through root words
• Maintain a personal vocabulary notebook
• Revise words daily

📘 Word Power Made Easy is highly recommended for this.

5. Clear Grammar Basics

• Revise grammar from school-level books
• Practice error spotting and fill-in-the-blank questions daily
• Grammar questions are often straightforward in CUET

6. Practice Previous Year Question Papers

Solving CUET English PYQs (2022–2025) is non-negotiable. This helps you:

• Understand question patterns
• Identify repeated topics
• Improve time management

Always practice PYQs in an exam-like environment.

7. Take Mock Tests Regularly

• Attempt CUET English mock tests weekly
• Analyse mistakes carefully
• Work on weak areas immediately

Mocks help reduce exam fear and improve confidence.

8. Smart Exam-Day Strategy

• Attempt questions only when confident
• Skip doubtful questions initially
• Avoid random guessing due to negative marking
• Reserve last few minutes for review

Remember: Accuracy matters more than attempts.

Best Books for CUET English Preparation

Here are the most trusted and recommended books:

1. Word Power Made Easy – Norman Lewis
2. Objective General English – S.P. Bakshi
3. High School English Grammar & Composition – Wren & Martin
4. English Language Comprehension Skills – Arihant Experts
5. CUET 2026 English Guide – Oswaal Books
6. Reading Comprehension for Competitive Exams – Disha Experts
7. Idioms, Phrases & Proverbs – Oxford

Use limited but quality books to avoid confusion.

Final Words: Can You Score 180+ in CUET English?

Yes, absolutely.

If you:

• Master vocabulary
• Practice RC daily
• Avoid negative marking
• Solve PYQs and mock tests regularly

then 180+ in CUET English is a realistic and achievable target.

Consistency, smart practice, and calm exam temperament are the real keys to success.