Read for structure, not for detail
On a first read, ask three questions: What is the topic? What is the author's point about it? How is the passage organised (problem and solution, comparison, argument and counter-argument)? Details can be looked up later when a question needs them.
The question types
Type | What it asks | How to answer |
|---|---|---|
Main idea | the central point | choose the option that covers the whole passage, not one sentence |
Detail | something stated | find the sentence and match it closely |
Inference | what must be true but isn't said | choose the option the passage forces, not one it merely allows |
Tone | the author's attitude | look at evaluative words: "unfortunately", "remarkably", "merely" |
Vocabulary in context | a word's meaning here | substitute each option into the sentence |
Eliminating wrong options
Wrong options usually fall into a few groups:
Too broad: claims more than the passage covers.
Too narrow: true, but only about one detail.
Out of scope: sounds sensible but isn't discussed.
Extreme: uses "always", "never", "all" where the passage is cautious.
Reversed: swaps cause and effect, or the author's view.
Worked example
City trees do more than decorate streets. Their shade lowers the temperature of roads and walls, and the water they release cools the air around them. Neighbourhoods with more trees can be several degrees cooler on summer afternoons, reducing the need for air conditioning.
Main idea: urban trees help cool cities.
Inference: fewer trees would probably mean hotter afternoons and more air-conditioning use.
Out of scope: tree planting costs, or which species is best.
Shortcuts and tricks
The standard way is to read the passage closely, then answer each question by rereading. Under time pressure, these habits are faster.
Read the question stem first
Knowing whether you need the main idea, an inference, the tone or one word's meaning tells you what to look for while you read.
Main idea: the option every sentence supports
Example: a passage about city trees lowering road temperature, cooling the air and making neighbourhoods cooler.
Standard way: summarise the passage in your own words, then compare with each option.
Shortcut: test each option against every sentence. A detail fits one sentence; the main idea fits them all.
Remove extreme options
Options with "always", "never", "all" or "only" usually claim more than a short passage can support. Cross them out first, then decide between what remains.
Tone from contrast words
Phrases like "was meant to … Instead" and "Yet" usually mark the author's own judgement, and that sets the tone.
Exam tips
Read the question before the passage for short passages, after it for long ones.
Answer only from the passage, even if you know more about the topic.
Prefer moderate wording: "can", "often", "some" are safer than "always" or "proves".