Mastering Skimming and Scanning for SAT Reading Success
Introduction
The SAT Reading section requires you to process long, complex passages in a short amount of time. Without effective strategies, you can feel rushed or miss critical details. Two powerful techniques—skimming and scanning—help you read faster while maintaining accuracy.
This guide explains:
- What skimming and scanning are.
- How to use these techniques effectively.
- Practical examples with SAT-style questions.
What is Skimming and When to Use It?
Skimming involves quickly reading a passage to grasp the main idea without getting caught up in details. Use skimming to:
- Identify the passage’s purpose.
- Find the structure: introduction, body, and conclusion.
- Locate the tone or author’s argument.
How to Skim:
- Read the first and last sentences of each paragraph.
- Look for repeated words or phrases to identify central themes.
- Pay attention to headings, if available.
Example:
In a passage about renewable energy, if “solar energy,” “wind power,” and “sustainability” are repeated, the main idea likely focuses on how renewable energy can replace traditional energy sources.
What is Scanning and When to Use It?
Scanning involves quickly searching the passage for specific details like names, numbers, or evidence for answers. Use scanning to:
- Answer line-specific questions.
- Locate evidence-based responses.
- Double-check your answers.
How to Scan:
- Identify key words from the question (e.g., names, dates, themes).
- Move your eyes quickly down the passage to locate these words.
- Read 2-3 lines before and after to ensure context.
Combining Skimming and Scanning for SAT Questions
Step 1: Skim First
Before answering, spend 30 seconds skimming the passage to understand the main idea and tone.
Step 2: Scan for Evidence
For specific questions, scan for keywords and supporting sentences.
Practical SAT Reading Example
Passage Excerpt:
“Solar energy has become one of the most efficient and sustainable sources of renewable energy. Over the last decade, advancements in technology have drastically reduced production costs while improving energy output.”
Question:
What is the author’s primary purpose in this passage?
A. To argue that solar energy is no longer sustainable.
B. To explain advancements in solar technology.
C. To show the drawbacks of traditional energy sources.
Solution:
- Skim the passage to identify the main idea: Advancements in solar energy.
- Scan for keywords like “advancements” and “technology” to confirm the correct answer: B. To explain advancements in solar technology.
- Avoiding Common Skimming and Scanning Mistakes
- Skipping Too Much: Skimming doesn’t mean ignoring key sentences. Always read introductions and conclusions.
- Scanning Without Focus: Look for keywords from the question, not random words.
- Misreading Context: Ensure you read before and after scanned lines to avoid errors.
Summary
Mastering skimming and scanning helps you navigate SAT Reading passages efficiently. Use skimming to identify the main idea and scanning to find details quickly. Practicing these techniques will save time and improve accuracy.
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