Strategies that actually move your score.
Skim, save, and come back to these. Each tip is the kind of small shift that quietly adds 10–20 points by test day.
Reading strategies
Read the question first
Before diving into a passage, glance at the question. You'll know what to look for and read with purpose.
Find the main idea
Ask: what is this passage mostly about? The main idea is usually supported by every paragraph — not just one detail.
Watch for signal words
Words like however, because, therefore, and instead reveal the author's logic. Underline them mentally.
Eliminate, don't guess
Cross off two clearly wrong options first. Even a 50/50 guess beats a 25% one.
Writing & grammar strategies
Match subject to verb
Singular subjects need singular verbs. Watch out for tricky phrases like 'each of the students' — 'each' is singular.
Use the right transition
However = contrast. Therefore = result. Meanwhile = at the same time. Pick the one that shows the actual relationship.
Cut the clutter
Shorter sentences win. If you can delete a word without losing meaning, delete it.
Stay parallel
In a list, keep the structure consistent: 'reading, writing, and studying' — not 'reading, to write, and studies.'
Must-know vocabulary
- InferenceA logical conclusion from clues in the text.
- ToneThe author's attitude — serious, playful, critical, hopeful.
- BiasA one-sided viewpoint that ignores other perspectives.
- CiteTo reference or quote a source as evidence.
- ConciseSaying something clearly in as few words as possible.
- ImplicitSuggested but not directly stated.