​SAT Reading Test Basics

​65 minutes

52 questions

5 passages; 4 single & 1 paired set (500-750 words each, 3,250 words total)

1 US/World Literature, 2 History/Social Sciences, 2 Science passages

At least one passage will include charts, graphs, tables

10-11 questions per passage

8 Vocab in Context questions (2 per passage)

10 Command of Evidence questions

5 Data Analysis questions

¾ of questions refer to a specific line 

​Scope & Support

​Every answer you select should be within the scope of the question (answers it) & has support from the text.

​Process of Elimination

​You should be using process of elimination on every single question. Cross out any choice that
exaggerates the passage, comes from the wrong part of the passage, or is not supported by the passage.

​ One of the best ways to
keep all of the information straight while reading is to use your pencil as you work: underline or jot
down the key points in each paragraph, box the key topic in each
question, mark the answers to highlight the parts you think are
important, and cross out incorrect answers.

​Keep Your Pencil Moving

​Skimming

​Considering you don’t have much time on the reading test, it is important that you learn to skim the passage as fast as you
can. Look for key topics and mark them, or just read the first
sentence of each paragraph. Either way, finish reading in no more than three minutes.

​Scanning

​Around half of the questions will NOT give you a line reference. You will have to scan to find the topic in the passage
instead. If you develop the ability to scan quickly and accurately, you will be much better at answering these kinds of questions.

​MasteryPrep SAT Reading Diagnostic

​You are being tested on both your reading comprehension level and an assortment of other elements, including:
Stamina
Time Management
Pacing
Process of Elimination
Motivation