1. Read the passage actively
Underline or note the main claim in the first and last paragraphs. Mark transitions (“however”, “moreover”, “yet”).
2. Answer in your own words first
Before looking at choices, say the answer in a short sentence. Then find the choice that matches your prediction.
3. Use line references aggressively
Almost every question has a specific location. Go back to the text every single time — never rely on memory.
4. Eliminate extremes & absolutes
Choices with “always”, “never”, “completely”, or “only” are rarely correct on the SAT.
5. Evidence questions come in pairs
When you see “Which choice provides the best evidence…”, the correct answer to the previous question is usually in one of the line ranges.