READING COMPREHENSION
TECHNIQUES
1. Don’t draw on outside knowledge
Every answer can, and should, be found or inferred directly from the
passage. If the subject of the passage seems obscure, don’t panic! Test-
takers are not expected to know anything ahead of time about the topics
covered on RC passages.
2. Look out for logical keywords
Logical keywords, or direction indicators, are words that indicate to the
reader what direction the author’s argument is taking. Keep an eye out for
these as you read. Many of these keywords fall into two groups: those that
indicate continuity (e.g. furthermore, in addition, also), and those that
indicate contrast (e.g. despite, but, nevertheless).
3. Learn how to recognize question types
Nearly all RC questions fall into three distinct categories. Global questions
ask about the passage as a whole, detail questions require test-takers to
locate and paraphrase a specific claim, and inference questions require
test-takers to note implications not explicitly stated. Knowing what type of
question you’re looking at will help you identify the most effective strategy
to use.
4. Keep your perspectives straight!
As you read through GMAT passages, remember that many passages will
provide multiple perspectives: One person will suggest a theory, and
another will disagree with it in certain cases for a specific reason. Be sure
to keep track of which side of the argument the author is on.
5. Start reading GMAT-like texts now
Reading comprehension passages on the GMAT tend to be dry (read:
boring), even by standardized test standards. Reading similarly convoluted
and/or jargon-heavy texts prior to test day will help your brain prepare.
For suggestions, check out our tips on what to read to help your Reading
Comprehension.
6. Practice RC skills in everyday reading
Occasionally, you will see questions on Reading Comprehension that ask
you to identify the author’s tone, extend passage information to new
situations, and/or determine how and why the passage is structured a
certain way. Practice identifying the author’s tone when you’re reading
newspaper articles, magazines, books, or blogs, and think about the
author’s reasoning for using the structure s/he did.
7. Pay attention to context
This is especially important when dealing with detail questions. Before
answering, read the sentence or lines referenced, as well as a few sentences
before and after. In certain situations, context can make all the different
between a right and wrong answer choice.
8. Use your scrap pad!
Write (brief) notes on the main idea of each paragraph to help you keep
track of the paragraph’s progression, arguments, and main point. This
strategy may seem to slow you down, but trust us: it will save you time in
the end!
9. Don’t let “glazed eye syndrome” get you down
Find yourself losing focus? Take a deep breath and look away from the
passage for a few seconds. When you go back to the passage, start from the
last sentence where you felt engaged by the material.
10. Don’t panic!
If you start to feel overwhelmed, don’t let fear take over! Take a deep
breath and be patient with your brain; it’s working hard, and often a quick
mental break is all you need to get back on track.
