PSAT Critical Reading

Master the skills to understand, analyze, and interpret reading passages on the PSAT.
Understanding Passage TypesFinding Main IdeasMaking Inferences
Analyzing Author's Purpose and ToneInterpreting Evidence and DataUnderstanding Vocabulary in Context
Applying Critical Reading in Everyday LifeEvaluating Arguments and ClaimsSynthesizing Information from Multiple Sources
Active Reading TechniquesTime Management on the TestEliminating Wrong Answers
Understanding Passag...Finding Main IdeasMaking InferencesAnalyzing Author's P...Interpreting Evidenc...Understanding Vocabu...Applying Critical Re...Evaluating Arguments...Synthesizing Informa...Active Reading Techn...Time Management on t...Eliminating Wrong An...
Basic Concepts

Understanding Passage Types

What Kinds of Passages Will You See?

The PSAT Critical Reading section features a variety of passage types. You'll encounter literature, historical texts, social sciences, and natural sciences. Each has its own style, vocabulary, and tone.

  • Literary Passages: These come from novels, short stories, or memoirs and focus on characters, themes, and narrative style.
  • Historical Texts: Excerpts from speeches, essays, or documents that require you to grasp arguments and context.
  • Social Sciences: Passages about psychology, anthropology, or sociology, often presenting studies or theories.
  • Natural Sciences: Discuss discoveries, experiments, or explanations in fields like biology, chemistry, or physics.

Knowing these types helps you approach each passage with the right mindset.

Why It Matters

Recognizing the passage type quickly lets you predict what information to look for and how to read efficiently.

Tips for Each Passage

  • Skim the first few sentences for context.
  • Notice the tone: Is it formal, informal, persuasive, or narrative?
  • Watch for author’s purpose clues.

Examples

  • A passage from a novel describing a character’s emotions.

  • An excerpt from a historical speech analyzing the speaker’s argument.

In a Nutshell

Identifying passage types prepares you to read with the right focus.

Key Terms

Passage
A section of text you are asked to read and analyze.
Tone
The attitude or feeling expressed by the author.
Next
Finding Main Ideas
PSAT Critical Reading Content & Lessons - Comprehensive Study Guide | Practice Hub