In Critical Reading: Should You Read the Passage or Not?

dchow08
Mon, 22 Jun 2009 20:44:49 +0000

I recommend reading the first question, then reading from the beginning of the passage down to where you can find the answer, then reading the next question, going back to the passage, until you’ve read the whole passage and can answer all the questions. I’ve found that there are some parts where you have to read about a paragraph above and below so that you understand what’s the author’s talking about, but then I might as well read the entire passage. I’d say do that if you have the time. I think just going to the questions and reading only the section corresponding to the question is useful mostly if you’re running out of time. In general, it’s hard to “study” or “prepare” for critical reading because having good reading skills will trump tricks and strategies. To improve vocab, use the words in ordinary conversation.