Reading Comprehension
What this domain tests
Reading comprehension asks you to extract meaning from a short text: its main idea, supporting details, the writer's attitude, and the meaning of words in context. You must distinguish stated information from inference, and understand how sentences connect through reference words and connectors.
Concepts to master
- Main idea vs. detail. The main idea is the claim the whole passage supports; details are evidence for it. A good test is whether a sentence could be deleted without changing the passage's purpose.
- Explicit vs. implied. Some answers restate the text; others require a small logical step. Learn to label each question before answering.
- Reference words. Pronouns like this, they, it, and such point back or forward. Track what each refers to.
- Connectors. However signals contrast, therefore signals result, for instance signals example. These words reveal the writer's logic.
- Tone and purpose. Ask why the writer included a sentence: to illustrate, to concede, to warn.
Traps to expect
- An option that is true in general knowledge but not supported by the passage.
- An option that repeats exact words from the text but distorts the relationship between them.
- Extreme wording (always, never, all) where the text is moderate.
- Confusing the writer's view with a view the writer reports and rejects.
Rule of thumb
Answer from the text, not from memory. For each option, find the line that proves or disproves it; if you cannot locate support, the option is wrong even if it sounds plausible. Prefer the most complete answer that stays within the passage's scope.
Worked example
Text: Many cities now plant trees along busy roads. Supporters cite cleaner air, but the cooling effect on hot days may matter more. Question: What is the writer's point? The word but contrasts two benefits and may matter more signals the writer's emphasis: cooling is possibly the greater benefit. An option saying trees clean the air is stated but not the point; an option saying trees are useless contradicts the text.