SAT Reading Comprehension: Strategies for Tackling Complex Readings

As a former high school English teacher and current SAT prep tutor, I've helped dozens of students conquer the reading comprehension section of the SAT. This part of the test can be particularly daunting, with its complex excerpts and time pressure. But with the right strategies, you can boost your score significantly. Let's dive into some effective techniques for mastering SAT reading comprehension.

1. Analyze the Question First

Before diving into the excerpt, quickly read the question and any answer choices. This primes your brain for the information you need to look for, making your reading more focused and efficient. Knowing what you're looking for can help you locate relevant details more quickly as you read the excerpt.

2. Read Actively

As you read, underline key points and make brief mental notes. This keeps you engaged with the text and helps you locate important information quickly when answering questions.

3. Focus on the Big Picture

Don't get bogged down in details you don't understand. The SAT rarely asks about obscure vocabulary or minor details. Focus on the main ideas and overall argument of the excerpt.

4. Tackle Questions Strategically

Start with the questions that point to specific lines in the excerpt. These are often easier and quicker to answer. Save general questions about the excerpt's main idea for last.

5. Use Process of Elimination

Even if you're not sure of the correct answer, you can often eliminate obviously wrong choices. This increases your chances of guessing correctly if needed.

6. Pay Attention to Transitions

Words like "however," "therefore," and "in contrast" signal important shifts in the author's argument. These are often key to understanding the excerpt's structure and main ideas.

7. Practice Identifying Tone

Many questions ask about the author's tone or attitude. Look for emotionally charged words and the overall approach to the subject matter to determine if the tone is objective, critical, enthusiastic, etc.

8. Don't Rely on Prior Knowledge

Base your answers solely on what's in the excerpt, not on what you might know about the topic from other sources.

9. Manage Your Time

Don't spend too long on any one question or excerpt. If you're stuck, make your best guess and move on. You can always come back if you have time at the end.

10. Read Regularly Outside of Test Prep

The best way to improve your reading comprehension is to read widely and often. Expose yourself to a variety of complex texts in different subjects to build your stamina and comprehension skills.

Remember, improving your SAT reading score is as much about test-taking strategy as it is about reading skills. In my years of teaching, I've seen students make significant improvements by consistently applying these techniques.

Struggling with SAT reading comprehension? In our tutoring sessions, we can work on applying these strategies to real SAT excerpts. We'll practice time management, active reading techniques, and question-answering strategies tailored to your specific strengths and weaknesses.

Don't let the reading section hold back your SAT score. With the right approach, you can tackle even the most complex excerpts with confidence. Book a session today, and let's start boosting your SAT reading comprehension skills.