Breaking Down the Author’s Reasoning

Many SAT passages present arguments or use rhetorical devices to persuade the reader. You’ll need to identify claims, supporting evidence, and persuasive techniques.

Key Focus Areas

• Claims: What is the author trying to prove?
• Evidence: What facts, statistics, or examples are used?
• Rhetorical Devices: Look for repetition, analogies, or rhetorical questions.

Common Rhetorical Devices

• Ethos: Appeals to credibility.
• Pathos: Appeals to emotion.
• Logos: Appeals to logic.

Practice in Daily Life

Analyzing advertisements or opinion pieces can sharpen your skills outside the classroom.