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

Vocabulary in Context

Unlocking Word Meanings

The SAT tests your ability to figure out the meaning of words as they're used in context—not just dictionary definitions. Context clues are your best friend!

How to Master This Skill

  • Look for synonyms, antonyms, or explanations nearby.
  • Reread the sentence with the word replaced by a blank.
  • Think about the overall tone and subject.

Real-World Benefit

Knowing how to deduce the meaning of unfamiliar words helps in college, at work, and even when reading novels or news.

Practice Makes Perfect

Get into the habit of guessing word meanings from clues in TV shows, articles, or conversations!

Examples

  • In the sentence 'The scientist's explanation was lucid, making the complex topic easy to understand,' you deduce that 'lucid' means 'clear.'

  • You encounter the word 'antiquated' and, seeing it described as 'outdated,' realize it means 'old-fashioned.'

In a Nutshell

Use clues in the passage to figure out what tricky words mean.

Key Terms

Context Clues
Hints in the text that help you figure out the meaning of unknown words.
Synonym
A word with a similar meaning to another.
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Making Inferences