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...
Practical Applications

Reading for Real-World Understanding

Beyond the Test

Critical reading skills aren't just for the PSAT—they help you understand news, social media, and instructions in everyday life.

Everyday Scenarios

  • Reading instructions for assembling furniture.
  • Understanding a news article's main point and supporting facts.
  • Deciphering the tone of an email from a teacher or boss.

Why It Matters

When you can spot main ideas, evaluate evidence, and make inferences, you become a smarter, more informed reader—no matter what you’re reading!

Examples

  • Reading a product review and judging whether the reviewer’s experiences are convincing.

  • Understanding a school policy email and knowing if it’s informative or persuasive.

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Applying Critical Reading to Group Projects