Reading Comprehension
Mental model
Read the questions before the passage, then read the passage like a map.
Don't try to memorize the passage. Find the main idea, the author's tone, and where specific details are located so you can refer back to them when answering.
Method
- Scan the questions first to know what you are looking for (e.g., 'main idea', 'specific detail', 'author tone').
- Read the first and last sentence of the passage carefully to grasp the core topic and conclusion.
- Skim the middle to locate keywords from the questions, paying attention to transition words (however, therefore).
- Match the targeted section of the passage with the question, eliminating options that distort the text or bring in outside knowledge.
Worked example
Problem: Passage: The company's pivot to cloud services was met with skepticism. However, Q3 revenue surged by 40%, vindicating the CEO's risky strategy. Question: What is the author's tone regarding the CEO's strategy?
- Scan the question: It asks for the 'author's tone' about the 'strategy'.
- Read the passage: Notes 'skepticism' initially, but transition word 'However' shifts the tone. 'Vindicating' indicates success.
- Evaluate tone: The author acknowledges the risk but ultimately presents the outcome as positive and justified.
- Formulate answer based on the word 'vindicating': The tone is approving or validating.
Answer: Approving/Validating.
Shortcuts
- Extreme words in options (always, never, only) are usually incorrect unless explicitly supported by the text.
- If a question asks for the 'main idea', the answer must cover the entire passage, not just a single detail.
Common mistakes
- Using outside knowledge: Selecting an answer that is factually true in the real world but not stated or implied in the passage.
- Falling for verbatim traps: Choosing an option just because it uses the exact words from the passage, even if it changes the meaning.
Glossary
- skepticism
- A feeling of doubt or not believing something easily.
- vindicating
- Proving that someone or something was right all along, especially after being doubted.
- skim
- To read something very quickly just to find the main ideas or specific words.
Recall questions
- What is the first step you should take when tackling a reading comprehension problem?
- Why are transition words like 'however' or 'therefore' important during skimming?
- When eliminating options, why should you be wary of words like 'always' or 'never'?
Questions & answers
Passage: Automated testing reduces bugs but requires high initial setup time. Thus, startups often skip it initially. Question: Why do startups skip automated testing?
Because of the high initial setup time.
Approach: Scan for 'startups skip'. The previous sentence gives the reason: 'high initial setup time'.
Passage: While remote work increases flexibility, it can hinder spontaneous team collaboration. Question: What is the primary disadvantage mentioned?
It hinders spontaneous collaboration.
Approach: Locate the 'disadvantage' keyword equivalent (hinder). Read the associated phrase: 'spontaneous team collaboration'.
Continue learning
Next: Critical Reasoning