Reading Comprehension and Written Expression
What is tested
Two related skills. First, comprehension: extracting the central proposition, the author's attitude, the function of a sentence within an argument, and the difference between what a passage states and what a question option merely implies. Second, expression: identifying the version of a sentence that is grammatically correct, unambiguous, and appropriately formal for legal writing.
Comprehension strategies
Map the passage before answering: identify the conclusion, the reasons offered for it, and any concession or qualification. Legal passages commonly qualify - "although X, the better view is Y" - and questions target the qualification rather than the headline. Distinguish stated, reasonably inferable, and unsupported. An option that is true in the world but not supported by the passage is a classic distractor, as is an option that overstates the author's confidence.
Expression traps
Watch for: dangling modifiers ("Having reviewed the file, the advice was revised"); mismatched subjects and verbs in long sentences; ambiguous pronoun reference; misplaced "only"; comma splices; and inconsistent tense. In legal drafting, prefer the active voice where the actor matters, keep conditions in parallel structure, and place modifiers next to what they modify. Avoid elegant variation - repeat the defined term rather than substituting synonyms, because synonyms create ambiguity.
Rule of thumb
For expression questions, eliminate on identifiable errors rather than on style preference. If two options are both grammatical, choose the one that is clearest and least ambiguous in meaning - clarity outranks elegance.
Worked example
"The solicitor advised the client that he should appeal." The pronoun "he" is ambiguous. A corrected version names the actor: "The solicitor advised the client to appeal." Prefer the rewrite that removes the ambiguity without adding meaning.
Timing
Answer comprehension questions from the passage, not memory. If an option requires an assumption the passage does not supply, it is wrong.