SAT Critical Reading

A comprehensive guide to mastering the SAT Critical Reading section, focusing on reading comprehension, vocabulary, inference, and test strategies.

Understanding Passage TypesActive Reading SkillsVocabulary in Context
Inference and EvidenceUnderstanding Author’s Purpose and ToneAnalyzing Arguments and Rhetoric
Applying Critical Reading to News and MediaEffective Note-taking for Study and LifeReading Comprehension at Work
Time Management on Test DayElimination TechniquesReading the Questions First
Understanding Passag...Active Reading Skill...Vocabulary in Contex...Inference and Eviden...Understanding Author...Analyzing Arguments ...Applying Critical Re...Effective Note-takin...Reading Comprehensio...Time Management on T...Elimination Techniqu...Reading the Question...
Advanced Topics

Understanding Author’s Purpose and Tone

What's the Author Up To?

Determining why an author wrote a passage (purpose) and how they feel about the subject (tone) is crucial for many SAT questions.

Clues to Purpose

  • Inform: Does the text explain or present facts?
  • Persuade: Is the author trying to convince the reader?
  • Entertain: Is the writing meant to amuse or tell a story?

Spotting Tone

  • Positive/Negative: Are the word choices upbeat or critical?
  • Neutral: Is the author objective and factual?
  • Sarcastic/Ironic: Are there hints that the author means the opposite of what they say?

Real-World Connection

Understanding purpose and tone helps you interpret emails, articles, and speeches in everyday life.

Examples

  • Recognizing that a passage’s sarcastic tone changes the meaning of what’s being said.

  • Identifying a persuasive essay’s purpose by the use of strong, opinionated language.

In a Nutshell

Identify why the author wrote the passage and how they feel about the topic.

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Analyzing Arguments and Rhetoric