Pacing and strategy for the section
You have about 10 minutes per passage. Read for the big picture, then go back for details.
The rules
- Spend 3 to 4 minutes on the passage, then answer questions in the order you prefer.
- Do the line-reference and vocabulary questions first. They are the fastest.
- Put a mark next to a question and move on if it takes more than a minute and a half. Return later.
- Always fill in an answer. There is no penalty for guessing.
Watch out: Reading every word slowly and running out of time on the last passage.
Worked example
You have 40 minutes for 4 passages. About how long should each take?
- 40 divided by 4 is 10.
- Aim for 3 to 4 minutes of reading and the rest for questions.
- Keep a steady pace.
Answer: About 10 minutes.
Try it yourself
Practice questions for this skill are for signed-in students. A free account is all you need.