How to Answer The Reading Comprehension Questions

If you are not able to read and understand both the complex sets of directions and some of the tricky questions posed on some reading comprehension tests, you might fail. This test will test your ability to read a passage, understand the point being made, and answer questions based on what is said in the passage being read.
 

A. Skim the passage to get a general idea of the subject matter and of the point that is being made.
B. Reread the passage, paying attention to details and point of view. Be alert for the author’s hints as to what he or she thinks is important. Phrases such as “Note that….,” “Of importance….,” and “Do you overlook….” Give clues to what the writer is stressing.
C. If the author has quoted material from another source, be sure that you understand the purpose of the quote. Does the author agree or disagree?
D. Carefully read the question or incomplete statement. Determine exactly what is being asked. Watch for negatives or all-inclusive words, such as always, never, all, only, every, absolutely, completely, none, entirely, and no. These words can affect your answer.
E. Read all of the answer choices. Do not rush to choose the first answer that might be correct. Eliminate those choices that are obviously incorrect. Reread the remaining choices, and refer to the passage, if necessary, to determine the best answer.
F. Avoid inserting your judgments into your answers. Even if you disagree with the author or spot a factual error in the passage, you must answer on the basis of what is stated or implied in the passage.
G. Do not allow yourself to spend too much time on any one question. If looking back at the passage does not help you to find or figure out the answer, choose from among the answers remaining after you eliminate the obviously wrong answers, and go on to the next question or the next reading passage.