HSPT Reading

A comprehensive guide to understanding and mastering the HSPT Reading section, focusing on comprehension, vocabulary, and analytical skills.

Understanding the HSPT Reading SectionReading Comprehension SkillsVocabulary in ContextIdentifying Author’s Purpose and Tone
Analyzing Arguments and EvidenceDrawing Conclusions and Making PredictionsUnderstanding Text Structure and Organization
Applying Reading Skills to Real LifeBuilding Vocabulary for School and BeyondCritical Reading in Everyday Choices
Time Management for the HSPT Reading SectionActive Reading StrategiesElimination and Guessing Techniques
Understanding the HS...Reading Comprehensio...Vocabulary in Contex...Identifying Author’s...Analyzing Arguments ...Drawing Conclusions ...Understanding Text S...Applying Reading Ski...Building Vocabulary ...Critical Reading in ...Time Management for ...Active Reading Strat...Elimination and Gues...
Study Strategies

Elimination and Guessing Techniques

Smart Guessing Pays Off

If you’re unsure about an answer, use the process of elimination. Cross off choices that are obviously wrong, then make an educated guess from the remaining options. Remember, there’s no penalty for guessing on the HSPT—so never leave a question blank!

Tips

  • Look for clues in the passage that rule out answer choices
  • Trust your instincts after narrowing it down
  • Move on quickly after guessing

Examples

  • Eliminating two answers that don’t match the passage, then choosing the best of the remaining two.

  • Guessing between two close answers when you’re running short on time.