SAT Critical Reading

A comprehensive guide to mastering the SAT Critical Reading section, focusing on reading comprehension, vocabulary, inference, and test strategies.

Understanding Passage TypesActive Reading SkillsVocabulary in Context
Inference and EvidenceUnderstanding Author’s Purpose and ToneAnalyzing Arguments and Rhetoric
Applying Critical Reading to News and MediaEffective Note-taking for Study and LifeReading Comprehension at Work
Time Management on Test DayElimination TechniquesReading the Questions First
Understanding Passag...Active Reading Skill...Vocabulary in Contex...Inference and Eviden...Understanding Author...Analyzing Arguments ...Applying Critical Re...Effective Note-takin...Reading Comprehensio...Time Management on T...Elimination Techniqu...Reading the Question...
Study Strategies

Elimination Techniques

Narrow Down Your Choices

If you don’t know the answer right away, use elimination to increase your odds of guessing correctly.

  • Cross Out Clearly Wrong Answers: Some choices are off-topic or contradict the passage.
  • Spot Trap Answers: Watch for choices that use extreme language or sound too broad.
  • Choose the Best Fit: Even if you’re unsure, pick from the remaining options.

Practice with Purpose

The more you practice, the better you get at spotting wrong answers quickly.

Examples

  • Eliminating two answer choices that are too extreme, then picking the best of the rest.

  • Crossing out answers with information not found in the passage.

Next
Reading the Questions First
Elimination Techniques - SAT Critical Reading Content | Practice Hub