I am currently studying for the SAT, and I have found that while I tend to do very well on the writing and math sections (usually missing about 1-2 total for both), the reading section continues to stump me, as I constantly seem to miss around 7-8 questions. I’ve taken a ton of practice tests, and I carefully examine every question I missed with little avail, as they seem to also be all over the place. I’ve read Erica Meltzer’s Complete guide to SAT reading, and tried to implement her strategies, but I don’t know… something’s just not clicking for the reading section.
Any tips for how I can improve my CR score? Anything is always appreciated.
Reading is a process and not a bunch of things you can memorize. To read successfully, you must read efficiently with speed, accuracy, comprehension coupled with expression. The best way to develop this skill is reading and reading aloud helps you hear reading rate and fluency. If you encounter an unknown word, write it down and look it up.
To help with the beat, try reading a few Dr.Seuss books. I found reading the Bible aloud was really helpful if you have heard it read aloud. Other familiar books can help you hear the music of reading. Reading fluently helps process text automatically and smoothly.
Beyond expanding reading skills generally, it is also import to skim text for information. Read text once to get a sense of the content. If allowed, put a mark by names, dares, etc. If there is a question like what is the name of the mother in little women and you know the answer, mark it and move on. You don’t have to consult text when you already know the answer. If you don’t know, skim text for names …note proper nouns…record the answer.
Reading successfully involves mental alertness and attention to skim and read fluently Practice reading is how you learn to read text.