Reading Comprehension and Interpretation of Texts
What the questions test
Reading comprehension on this exam rewards precise, evidence-based reading rather than prior knowledge or personal opinion. You must be able to identify main idea versus supporting detail, distinguish stated information from inference, trace an author's purpose and tone, and interpret figurative and connotative language. Pay attention to transitions (however, therefore, although) because they signal shifts in logic, and to pronoun reference, which is a common source of error.
Traps to watch for
- True but irrelevant answers: a choice that is accurate about the passage but does not answer the specific question asked.
- Overreach in inference: conclusions that go beyond what the text supports, often signalled by absolute words such as always, never, proves.
- Scope errors: confusing a detail with the main idea, or a paragraph's claim with the whole passage's claim.
- Half-right distractors: the first clause is correct but the second contradicts the passage.
Rule of thumb
For every answer, locate the exact line or lines that justify it before selecting. If you cannot point to evidence, the choice is probably wrong even if it sounds reasonable. When two options seem close, ask which one is more directly supported and narrower in scope.
Worked example
Suppose a passage states: "The council approved the proposal, though several members noted that funding remained uncertain." A question asks for the council's attitude. The correct answer is cautious approval-approval is stated, and the caveat about funding supplies the caution. An option reading outright rejection misreads the concessive though, and enthusiastic endorsement ignores the reservation.