SAT Critical Reading

A comprehensive guide to mastering the SAT Critical Reading section, focusing on reading comprehension, vocabulary, inference, and test strategies.

Reading Comprehension FundamentalsVocabulary in ContextMaking Inferences
Analyzing Author’s Purpose and PerspectiveInterpreting Evidence and Supporting ClaimsComparing Multiple Texts
Applying Critical Reading to Everyday MediaBuilding Vocabulary for College and CareerEffective Note-Taking While Reading
Time Management on the Reading SectionEliminating Wrong Answer ChoicesActive Reading Techniques
Reading Comprehensio...Vocabulary in Contex...Making InferencesAnalyzing Author’s P...Interpreting Evidenc...Comparing Multiple T...Applying Critical Re...Building Vocabulary ...Effective Note-Takin...Time Management on t...Eliminating Wrong An...Active Reading Techn...
Basic Concepts

Making Inferences

Reading Between the Lines

The SAT loves to ask questions where the answer isn't directly stated. This is where inference comes in: using clues from the text combined with your own knowledge.

How to Infer

  • Look for subtle hints, not obvious statements.
  • Combine information from different parts of the passage.
  • Trust your reasoning—if it’s supported by evidence.

Why Inference Is Important

Every day, we infer meaning from texts, conversations, and even facial expressions. Mastering this skill helps you understand more than just the words on the page.

Quick Tips

  • Avoid wild guesses—always base your answers on the passage.
  • Eliminate options that go beyond the information given.

Examples

  • You read that a character 'shivered and wrapped his coat tighter' and infer he is cold, even though it isn't stated.

  • After reading a passage about a scientist's failed experiment, you infer that the scientist will try a new method next time.

In a Nutshell

Draw logical conclusions from what you read, even when the answer isn't obvious.

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Analyzing Author’s Purpose and Perspective