Time Management Strategies for SAT Reading Success
Introduction
The SAT Reading section can feel overwhelming with its long, dense passages and tight time limits. You have just 65 minutes to complete 5 passages and 52 questions. Without an effective pacing strategy, it’s easy to run out of time.
This guide provides actionable strategies to:
- Allocate time per passage.
- Prioritise questions and avoid traps.
- Build stamina and speed for the test.
How to Allocate Time for SAT Reading
The SAT Reading section includes 5 passages:
- 1 literary passage (fiction)
- 1-2 social science passages
- 2-3 science/historical passages
Time Management Rule:
- Spend 12-13 minutes per passage, including reading and answering questions.
Time Breakdown Per Passage:
- Skim and annotate the passage: 3-4 minutes.
- Answer questions: 8-9 minutes.
Tip: Use a watch or timer to stay aware of time limits.
Skimming Effectively to Save Time
Skimming allows you to grasp the main idea without reading every word.
How to Skim Quickly:
- Read the first and last sentences of each paragraph.
- Underline repeated words or key phrases.
- Note the tone (e.g., positive, negative, neutral).
Example:
In a passage discussing climate change, repeated terms like “global warming” or “carbon emissions” indicate the central theme.
Prioritise Questions for Maximum Efficiency
Not all SAT Reading questions require the same effort. Prioritise as follows:
Direct Questions:
- These ask about line references or specific details.
- Example: “In line 12, what does the word ‘vast’ most nearly mean?”
Main Idea Questions:
- These appear early and ask for the passage’s purpose.
Inference Questions:
- Answer these last, as they require careful reasoning.
Tip: Skip difficult questions and return to them later. Don’t get stuck.
Avoid Common Time-Wasting Traps
Over-Reading:
- Don’t read every sentence slowly. Focus on key ideas.
Overthinking Answers:
- If two answers seem close, eliminate options that are too broad or out of context.
Losing Track of Time:
- Always move on if you’ve spent more than 1 minute on a single question.
Build Reading Stamina with Practice Tests
To perform well on the SAT Reading section, you need stamina to stay focused for the full 65 minutes.
How to Build Stamina:
- Take full-length timed practice tests weekly.
- Start with fewer passages (2-3) and work your way up.
- Review incorrect answers to improve speed and accuracy.
Practice Question for SAT Reading
Passage Summary:
An article about renewable energy focuses on solar power advancements.
Question:
What is the central claim of the passage?
A. Solar power is less efficient than fossil fuels.
B. Solar power is increasingly efficient and affordable.
C. The costs of solar power have increased.
Solution:
By skimming for repeated ideas like “efficiency” and “affordable,” the answer is B.
Summary
Managing time effectively on the SAT Reading section is key to answering all questions accurately. By skimming passages, prioritising questions, and building stamina through practice, you’ll improve your speed and confidence.
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