When tackling complex passages, what should you do if you don’t understand a sentence on the first read?

Re-read the sentence carefully and break it down into smaller parts

Look for the answer in the questions first

Guess the meaning based on the context

What is the best approach when encountering unfamiliar vocabulary during the SAT Reading section?

Use the context of the sentence to infer the meaning of the word

Guess the meaning without reading the sentence

Look up the word in a dictionary

Which of the following is an effective method for answering 'big picture' questions in the SAT Reading section?

Review the passage’s main theme and purpose after reading the whole passage

Focus solely on specific details mentioned in the passage

Look at the title and first sentence only

Ignore the passage and focus on the questions

How should you approach paired passages in the SAT Reading section?

Read both passages first before answering any questions

Read only one passage and answer all questions

Answer questions for each passage as you read them

Skip all paired passage questions

What type of questions are usually the most challenging in the SAT Reading section?

Vocabulary-in-context questions

Literal comprehension questions

What is a good strategy for answering 'tone' questions in the SAT Reading section?

Look for emotionally charged words or phrases used by the author

Ignore the author’s choice of words

Guess based on the title of the passage

Focus only on the first paragraph

What should you do if a question asks you to determine the meaning of a word 'in context'?

Focus on how the word is used in the sentence and passage

Look for synonyms in the answer choices

Pick the definition that you are most familiar with

Ignore the passage and focus on the question

Which of the following is a good time management strategy for the SAT Reading section?

Pace yourself by spending a set amount of time on each passage

Spend most of your time on the first few questions

Answer all questions as quickly as possible without reading carefully

Skip to the end of the section and answer the last questions first

What is the best way to handle questions that ask you to identify the author’s purpose?

Consider the overall message and intent of the passage

Focus only on specific details in the passage

Mastering SAT English Reading: Proven Strategies for Success

SAT/sphere SAT Blog

Explore proven strategies and tips to master the SAT English reading section, enhance comprehension skills, and tackle complex passages with confidence.

June 30, 2024

Mastering SAT English Reading: Proven Strategies for Success

June 30, 2024

Test Your SAT Knowledge

What is one effective strategy for identifying the main idea of a passage in the SAT English Reading section?

Focusing only on the first and last sentences of each paragraph

Skimming the passage without paying attention to details

Paying attention to repeated themes and ideas throughout the passage

Guessing based on prior knowledge

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