PSAT Critical Reading

Master the skills to understand, analyze, and interpret reading passages on the PSAT.

Understanding Passage StructureFinding Main Ideas and Supporting DetailsMaking Inferences
Analyzing Author’s Purpose and ToneInterpreting Vocabulary in ContextEvaluating Evidence and Arguments
Reading for Real-World UnderstandingApplying Critical Reading to Group ProjectsUnderstanding Media and Advertising
Active Reading TechniquesEliminating Wrong AnswersTime Management on the PSAT
Understanding Passag...Finding Main Ideas a...Making InferencesAnalyzing Author’s P...Interpreting Vocabul...Evaluating Evidence ...Reading for Real-Wor...Applying Critical Re...Understanding Media ...Active Reading Techn...Eliminating Wrong An...Time Management on t...
Advanced Topics

Analyzing Author’s Purpose and Tone

Looking Beyond the Words

Every author writes with a purpose—maybe to inform, persuade, entertain, or express feelings. Tone is the attitude or emotion behind the words.

Spotting Purpose

  • Is the author trying to convince you of something? (Persuade)
  • Are they just giving information? (Inform)
  • Do they criticize or mock? (Satirize)

Detecting Tone

  • Look for descriptive words or phrases.
  • Ask yourself: How does the author feel about the topic?

PSAT Tips

Questions about purpose and tone often use words like "suggests," "implies," or "conveys." Pay attention to emotionally charged words.

Examples

  • An article about recycling that uses urgent language and calls to action likely aims to persuade.

  • A passage with playful language and jokes uses a humorous tone.

In a Nutshell

Figure out why the author wrote the passage and how they feel about the subject.

Key Terms

Author's Purpose
The reason an author wrote a passage.
Tone
The author's attitude toward the subject.
Next
Interpreting Vocabulary in Context