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Read the Question First
Before diving into a passage, read the question(s) so you know exactly what to look for. This keeps your focus sharp and saves time.
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Find the Main Idea
The main idea is usually in the first or last sentence of a paragraph. Ask: "What is this passage mostly about?" - big picture, not details.
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Eliminate Wrong Answers
Cross out answers that are too extreme ("always," "never"), completely off-topic, or contradict the passage. Work from 4 to 2 to 1.
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Context Clues for Vocabulary
Don't know a word? Look at the sentences around it. The passage almost always gives hints through nearby words or examples.
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Stick to the Passage
Your personal knowledge doesn't matter - only what the passage says. Every answer should be supported directly by the text.
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Inference Questions
"What can be inferred" means what is strongly implied but not directly stated. Look for the answer that logically follows from the passage.
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Watch for Tricky Words
Words like "except," "not," and "best" change everything. Mentally underline them so you don't accidentally pick the opposite answer.
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Re-read When Unsure
If you're stuck, go back to the passage. The answer is always there. Read the relevant sentences once more slowly before choosing.
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Author's Purpose
Ask: Is the author trying to inform, persuade, or entertain? The tone of the writing is a big clue - look at word choices and structure.
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Don't Overthink It
If you've narrowed it to two answers, go with the one most directly supported by the text. Your first solid instinct is usually right!
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Know Your Target Score
You need 114 or higher to place into college-level reading/English at most Florida colleges. Use Practice Tests to see where you stand!
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Build Up Difficulty
Start with Easy to build confidence, then move to Medium, then Hard. Each level uses vocabulary and reasoning closer to the real exam.