How to Prepare for a Reading Comprehension Test
Method I: Taking Practice Tests
1. Search online for sample questions and practice exams.
They're invaluable tools for preparation, offering a wealth of sample questions to familiarize yourself with the test format. Numerous free resources are available online, and if you can't find them on the testing site, a quick internet search usually yields results. Additionally, there are sites offering practice exams for purchase.
2. Start by taking untimed tests to get comfortable.
The first practice test aims to familiarize you with the test format and establish your rhythm. Speed isn't crucial; prioritize applying learned strategies and thoroughly understanding passages and questions. Utilize answer keys to assess your performance, identifying both correct and incorrect answers for improvement.
3. Time yourself once you start getting the hang of it to track your progress.
As you gain confidence, transition to timed tests according to the guidelines of your specific exam. For instance, the SAT allows 65 minutes for 52 multiple-choice questions. If you're pressed for time, consider skimming passages to expedite completion.
4. Try taking a test prep course for more guidance and practice, if possible.
Numerous private companies provide intensive courses for standardized test preparation, particularly for reading comprehension sections. While these courses can be expensive, they offer valuable assistance. Explore online for test prep courses in your vicinity and reach out with any inquiries. Plan to enroll in the course several months prior to your exam date for adequate preparation.
Method II: Understanding What You Read
1. Read the passage carefully before answering the question.
Take a few minutes to read the entire passage so that you understand the main ideas. As you read, look for main ideas and supporting examples. Don’t try to answer any questions before you read the entire passage. You don’t want to miss something important! As you read, look for:
Contrasting and comparable ideas
Ideas the author is advancing and ideas the author is simply reporting
Ideas that are speculative
Examples that are specific
2. Skim the passage if you’re worried about time management.
For fast readers, skipping this step is feasible. However, if you're worried about time constraints, practicing skimming skills is advisable. Skimming involves carefully reading the first and last lines of each paragraph while swiftly scanning the rest for main points, minimizing focus on details.
3. Go over each question to make sure you understand what it's asking.
After you read the passage, read the entire question carefully. Now that you know what the reading is about, you can check to make sure you are very clear on what the question is asking.
4. Finish one passage before moving on to the next to avoid confusion.
hile it might be tempting to try to get a feel for each portion of the test, don’t get ahead of yourself. Stick to reading one passage at a time and answering the questions related to that passage. Read the passage through carefully and don’t read another one until you are done with it.
Method III: Answering Multiple Choice Questions
1. Look for common types of wrong answers on multiple-choice questions.
Utilize your practice tests effectively by analyzing both correct and incorrect answers. Refer to sample answers to discern the qualities of good and poor responses. Keep in mind these things that contribute to a bad answer:
Answers that make assumptions
Answers that are too specific or too vague
Answers that don’t connect directly to the text
Answers that don’t directly answer the question that was asked
2. Skip hard questions and come back to them to avoid getting stuck.
Multiple-choice questions can be challenging and frustrating. Instead of dwelling on a difficult question, move on if you're stuck. If it takes more than a minute to choose an answer, proceed to the next question. Return to the unanswered question later, as taking a break can provide a mental refresh.
3. Use the process of elimination to get rid of obviously wrong answers.
When tackling multiple-choice questions, eliminate obviously incorrect answers first. Then, discard the option that is likely incorrect. This leaves you with the most probable correct answer. While it may seem straightforward, success in multiple-choice tests often hinges on practice and strategic thinking. Keep practicing and employing these strategies confidently.
4. Answer every question even if you are just guessing.
In exams like the SAT, there's no penalty for incorrect answers, so guessing is advantageous. With four choices in multiple-choice questions, even blind guessing offers a 25% chance of getting it right. Hence, never leave questions unanswered; if time is running out, make sure to mark an answer for each question.
Method IV: Writing Short Essay Answers
1. Refer to the passage to help you narrow down the answer.
Approach the reading comprehension section as an open-book exam, alleviating the pressure of memorization. Instead, refer back to the passage as you construct your answer, ensuring accuracy. Look for significant keywords and recurring themes, indicating their importance in the text. This method helps maintain factual accuracy and clarity in your responses.
2. Write your answer based on information in the passage.
When writing a short answer essay, focus on demonstrating your comprehension of the text rather than relying on external knowledge. Base your argument and supporting evidence solely on the passage itself, showcasing your understanding of the material.
3. Answer the question paragraph by paragraph to stay on track.
When crafting your answer, incorporate examples from each paragraph of the passage into your essay. This approach ensures the inclusion of key information and facilitates essay organization. Begin by integrating relevant details from the first paragraph, then progress systematically through subsequent paragraphs.
