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

Finding Main Ideas

Why Main Ideas Matter

Every passage has a central idea—the main point the author wants to get across. On the PSAT, many questions ask you about the main idea or theme.

How to Spot the Main Idea

  • First and Last Sentences: Authors often state the main idea at the beginning or end.
  • Repeated Concepts: If an idea pops up several times, it’s probably important.
  • Summarize in Your Own Words: After reading, try to state the main point in a sentence.

Practice Makes Perfect

Reading actively and asking, “What’s this mostly about?” sharpens your skill.

Real-World Connections

Understanding the main idea helps you summarize articles, follow instructions, and grasp the point in conversations.

Examples

  • A passage discusses the benefits of recycling; the main idea is that recycling helps the environment.

  • An article analyzes a scientist’s experiment; the main idea is the experiment’s significance.

In a Nutshell

The main idea is the heart of a passage—learn to find it fast!

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Making Inferences