New SAT Reading

The New SAT Reading subject focuses on developing critical reading skills necessary for success on the SAT exam.

Understanding Passage TypesIdentifying Main Ideas and ThemesInterpreting Evidence and Supporting Details
Analyzing Author's Purpose and ToneUnderstanding Vocabulary in ContextInterpreting Data and Graphics
Applying Critical Reading in Everyday LifeUsing Reading Skills in School ProjectsCommunicating Effectively with Text
Active Reading TechniquesTime Management on the SATElimination and Guessing Strategies
Understanding Passag...Identifying Main Ide...Interpreting Evidenc...Analyzing Author's P...Understanding Vocabu...Interpreting Data an...Applying Critical Re...Using Reading Skills...Communicating Effect...Active Reading Techn...Time Management on t...Elimination and Gues...
Basic Concepts

Understanding Passage Types

Different Kinds of Reading Passages

The SAT Reading section features a variety of passage types drawn from literature, history/social studies, and science. Each passage type offers a unique style, tone, and purpose, and understanding these differences will help you better approach the questions.

  • Literary Passages center on narrative or fiction, often involving characters, dialogue, and themes.
  • Historical/Social Science Passages focus on social issues, historical events, or political ideas.
  • Science Passages present scientific concepts, experiments, or discoveries in a non-technical way.

Why It Matters

Recognizing the passage type helps you anticipate the kind of questions you’ll face and adjust your reading strategy accordingly.

Quick Tips

  • Skim the introduction and footnotes for context clues.
  • Notice signal words that indicate argument, evidence, or change in tone.

Real-World Connection

Being able to quickly identify and adapt to different text types is a valuable skill for college and the workplace, where you'll encounter everything from emails to research reports.

Examples

  • A fiction passage from a 19th-century novel describing a character's internal struggle.

  • A science article explaining the findings of a recent climate study.

In a Nutshell

Get to know the different passage types on the SAT to read smarter and faster.

Key Terms

Passage Type
A category of reading material based on subject and style.
Narrative
A story-based structure, often found in literary passages.
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Identifying Main Ideas and Themes