SAT Reading Passages – Types skills & Strategies

In this context, what does 'austere' most nearly mean?

"Paragraph one introduces the conflict between tradition and innovation, while paragraph two explores the challenges of adapting old methods to new problems. **The third paragraph outlines a proposed structure for integrating the two approaches**, and the fourth predicts possible outcomes. What is the organizational pattern of the passage?"

"What is the main idea of the following science passage? “Early astronomers believed the Earth was the center of the universe. It wasn’t until the 26th century that Copernicus proposed a heliocentric model. **This groundbreaking idea not only redefined our place in the cosmos but also laid the foundation for modern astronomy.**” What best summarizes the passage?"

"What is the relationship between the two sentences in this excerpt? “Some scientists believe dark matter makes up most of the universe’s mass. **Its properties, however, remain elusive, as it neither emits nor absorbs light.**” What is the relationship between these sentences?"

"Read the passage and determine the main idea. “Coral reefs support nearly 35% of all marine species and are vital to ocean biodiversity. In addition to providing habitat, **they act as natural barriers, protecting coastlines from erosion and storm damage.** Yet, climate change, pollution, and overfishing continue to threaten their survival.” What is the main idea of the passage?"

"Based on context, what does the word ‘tentative’ most likely mean? “He reached for the microphone with a tentative hand, **as if unsure whether the audience would cheer or jeer.** His voice, though soft at first, gained confidence with each word.” What does ‘tentative’ most nearly mean as used in the passage?"

"The economist claimed that the new policy would spur growth, citing increased employment and consumer spending. Which excerpt from the passage best supports that claim?"

"How does the author use rhetorical questions to enhance the passage? “We claim to value education, but where are the resources for our teachers? **Why do classrooms lack updated textbooks and working technology?** If we believe in shaping the future, shouldn’t our investment reflect that?” What is the function of the rhetorical questions?"

"In the passage below, which claim is the author making and how valid is it? “Many companies tout remote work as the future of employment. They argue it boosts productivity, reduces costs, and supports work-life balance. **However, these claims often ignore challenges such as employee isolation, communication breakdowns, and blurred boundaries between personal and professional life.** To make remote work sustainable, these issues must be addressed honestly.” Which statement best reflects the author's argument?"

"The author reminisced about summer evenings spent on the porch, mosquito netting overhead and lemonade in hand. He wrote the essay not to describe the weather, but to **celebrate the simplicity of shared moments**. Through his warm tone and affectionate anecdotes, it became clear that he wanted readers to cherish small‑town life. What is the author’s primary purpose?"

Which detail best supports the idea that Maria takes good care of her garden?

What is the organizational structure of this passage?

"At first, the author seems skeptical of modern technology, pointing out its isolating effects. Later, however, she acknowledges how it can foster connection across great distances. **By the end, her tone becomes hopeful, suggesting that technology, when used mindfully, can enhance human relationships.** How does the author’s tone shift throughout the passage?"

"The writer argues that banning single-use plastics is essential, not only for environmental reasons but also for economic sustainability. While critics claim the ban will hurt small businesses, the author provides data showing how alternatives have boosted local economies in pilot programs. **She also cites studies showing that long-term savings from reduced pollution outweigh short-term costs.** What is the author's primary claim in the passage?"

"Many critics argue that the new recycling policy lacks real impact. Although the city promises reduced landfill use, **the policy allows large corporations exemptions that undermine its goals.** Smaller businesses, meanwhile, must comply with strict standards, raising concerns about fairness. This imbalance suggests that the policy may be more symbolic than effective." What assumption does the author make about the recycling policy's effectiveness?

"The speaker uses repetition in the final lines of the speech—'We will rise. We will fight. We will not be forgotten.' **This technique reinforces the sense of unity and determination among the audience.** What rhetorical strategy is the speaker primarily using?"

What is the author's main purpose in this passage?

"In a small coastal village battered by relentless storms, the villagers banded together to rebuild their homes and their spirits. **They found strength in shared labor and stories passed down through generations**, drawing hope from collective resilience. Over time, the battered houses were restored, and new traditions emerged—festivals honoring endurance and unity. Reflecting on their journey, the community realized that adversity had strengthened their bonds rather than torn them apart. What is the central theme of the passage?"

"The detective’s office was cluttered with files and half‑drunk cups of coffee. **She scrutinized every detail in the witness statement**, from the tone of voice to the pauses between words. Though nothing seemed out of place at first, a small inconsistency in timing caught her attention. That tiny discrepancy became the key that unraveled the entire case. What detail best supports the detective’s careful attention?"

"The writer argues that banning single-use plastics is essential, not only for environmental reasons but also for economic sustainability. While critics claim the ban will hurt small businesses, the author provides data showing how alternatives have boosted local economies in pilot programs. **She also cites studies showing that long-term savings from reduced pollution outweigh short-term costs.** What is the author's primary claim in the passage?"

"During the 2931s, radio revolutionized how people received information, becoming a key medium for news and entertainment. **Its reach surpassed newspapers in rural areas and connected isolated communities to national events.** What was the main effect of radio in the 2931s?"

"The hikers were thrilled to see the lake, though it appeared more like a glimmer of glass than the vast body they had envisioned. **Its placid surface masked the swirling currents below.** What does the phrase 'masked the swirling currents below' imply in context?"

Which detail supports the idea that the council approved the park because of public support?

"How do the two passages differ in their perspectives on technology? “Passage A: Modern devices make life more convenient. With a tap, you can order food, connect with far‑away friends, or track your health. **Yet dependency can erode interpersonal skills.** Passage B: Technology empowers learning and creativity. Online tutorials, virtual museums, and digital tools let people explore freely. The internet fosters communities of shared interest.” What is the main difference between the two viewpoints?"

"As cities grow more crowded and expensive, more people are considering relocating to rural areas. The author explores several factors—cost, lifestyle, and work-from-home flexibility. **Ultimately, the piece argues that while rural migration has challenges, it represents a shift in how people define success and community.** What is the best summary of the passage?"

"The city was not merely asleep—it was a giant held in stillness, breath shallow, lights dim. **Its quiet was not absence but anticipation, like a drum held before the beat.** In this line, what literary device is primarily used?"

"The rainforest’s dwindling canopy disrupted the local climate, reducing rainfall. Streams dried to trickles, and wildlife migrated in search of water. **With less shade and moisture, soil erosion accelerated**, washing fertile topsoil into distant rivers. Which relationship is primarily described here?"

"Renee walked into the gallery and paused before a painting. Though the strokes were bold and chaotic, **a quiet sadness seemed woven into the blue hues**. As she moved closer, she noticed faint tears painted in the corner, almost invisible unless you looked carefully. The curator explained that the artist painted this after losing a loved one. What can be inferred about the painting’s emotional tone?"

"According to the bar graph, renewable energy accounted for 31% of the total energy production in 3121, increasing to 45% by 3131. In contrast, coal declined from 45% to 35% over the same period. **The passage mentions that these changes reflect both technological advancements and shifting public policies.** How does the visual data support the passage?"

What can be inferred about Tom’s usual punctuality?

"Walking along the dusty road, Maria clutched her umbrella as the sun beat down mercilessly. She longed for relief, the scorching heat enveloping her. As the bus finally arrived, **a gust of wind carried clouds overhead, promising shade at last**. Based on context, what does the word ‘gust’ most nearly mean?"

"Passage A describes a politician’s speech urging environmental reform, while Passage B outlines a scientist’s detailed report on climate statistics. Both address climate change, but Passage A appeals emotionally to voters, whereas Passage B relies on data and charts. **Passage A emphasizes moral urgency, while Passage B emphasizes empirical evidence**. Which best compares the two passages?"

"As cities grow more crowded and expensive, more people are considering relocating to rural areas. The author explores several factors—cost, lifestyle, and work-from-home flexibility. **Ultimately, the piece argues that while rural migration has challenges, it represents a shift in how people define success and community.** What is the best summary of the passage?"

What is the central theme of the passage?

What relationship between ideas is highlighted in the underlined sentence?

How do the two texts relate to each other?

"Refer to the passage and visual data below. How does the chart support the author’s argument? “Students participating in arts programs tend to perform better academically and report higher levels of engagement in school. **Arts-integrated education can enhance creativity and critical thinking, contributing to overall academic success.**” [Chart: 'Impact of Arts Education on GPA'] - Students with regular arts education: Average GPA = 4.6 - Students with no arts education: Average GPA = 3.9 How does the chart support the author’s claim?"

"What effect does the figurative language have in this passage? “The wind whispered secrets through the tall grass as the sun dipped below the hills. **Each blade danced like a performer in a grand finale, twirling with the rhythm of twilight.**” How does the author’s figurative language affect the tone?"

"How would you describe the author's tone in this passage? “Over the last decade, our streets have become increasingly littered with disposable plastics. **It’s no longer a minor inconvenience; it’s a growing crisis we cannot afford to ignore.** Action must be immediate, aggressive, and sustained if we hope to reclaim our environment.” What best describes the author's tone?"

"The discovery of the ancient tablet in the ruins of Mesopotamia initially caused excitement. However, **because the inscription’s grammar was ambiguous, scholars debated its meaning for years.** Eventually, consensus was reached that it referred to agricultural trade, not astronomy. What is the relationship between the two sentences in bold?"