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Critical Reading Questions
The next few sections describe each of the most common types of critical reading questions.
Familiarize yourself with these questions so that when you see them on the test, you'll know what they are asking you to do.
Questioning the Main Idea
For each passage you'll be asked to determine the main idea. Sometimes the question says just that: "What is the main idea of the passage?" Or it can use other words, such as, "What is the most appropriate title for this passage?" or "What is the author's central argument?".
Each of these questions asks the same thing — what is the main theme of the passage?
Words in Context
Some questions ask you to define words or phrases from the passage. To do this, you'll have to look back to where the word was used and see it in context.
For example, the question might say, "The word "estate" in line 46 most nearly means . . ." Depending on the sentence, "estate" could mean someone's property, someone's status, a piece of land, or even an inheritance.
Read the Surrounding Text
To figure out which sense of the word is meant, start from a little before line 46, and read through that line and past it.
You'll then have a handle on what the author meant by that term and you can intelligently answer the question.
Detailed Information about the Passage
Some questions ask about specific information from the passage. For example, "The passage mentions which of the following as important to the success of a feature film?"
Or, "The author discusses the hobbies of which Presidents?" Or, "The incident in lines 21 through 35 resulted in which of the following?"
Depending on Your Retention
If you can answer questions like the ones on the previous page from what you remember having read in the passage, great!
Otherwise, simply go back to the paragraph, find that part, and reread enough to find the answer.
What the Author Thinks
Another type of question asks you to determine the author's tone or point of view. For example, "The author's attitude toward large dogs is . . ." Or, "The author believes strongly that . . ." Or, "The author would most likely agree with which of the following?".
Look for Adjectives
As you read, small details should help you become aware of how the author of the passage feels about the topic presented.
Is the author in favor . . .? or opposed . . .? or neutral . . .? or sarcastic . . .? or doubtful . . .? or excited . . .? Look for adjectives like these that will help you understand the author's perspective.
Your Thoughts on the Passage
Finally, questions may also ask you to apply or interpret what you just read. For example, "The author most likely describes the traffic on the highway in order to . . ." Or, "The reference to loud chewing is inappropriate as an argument for gum control because . . ." Or, "The description of George Washington's cow serves to . . ."
Using Author Implication
Reasoning questions are usually the toughest because the answers won't be stated directly in the passage. You have to read beneath the surface.
But you still can't bring in your own information. Use only what the author implies. It's tough, but with practice you can do it.
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