Reading Comprehension Strategy

intermediate26 min read

How to work an RC passage under time: the order to read in, the question types and what each is really asking, an elimination method for the options, and how to handle inference, tone and vocabulary-in-context items.

What you will be able to do

Choose a reading order that fits the passage length and your speed.
Classify each question as main idea, detail, inference, tone, or vocabulary-in-context.
Answer inference and tone questions from the passage alone, without outside knowledge.
Use option elimination to separate a defensible answer from a plausible distractor.

What is inside this lesson

1What RC actually tests
2The order to read in
3The question types
4Working the options
5Worked example: a short passage
6Tone and vocabulary-in-context
7Doing it under time
8Quick revision

The lesson itself is for members

Reading the 8 sections above, the worked examples and the practice set is free — the whole knowledge base is on the free plan, along with flashcards, private notes and Ask Onely.

Create a free account Sign in