SAT Reading Test Overview

Total Questions: 52   Total Time: 65 minutes Number of Passages: 4 single passages plus 1 pair of passages

Passage Subjects: 1 American literature or world literature passage 2   history/social studies passages  One will be in social science. One will be from a U.S. founding document or text in the Great Global Conversation. 2   science passages

Passage Complexities: It ranges from grades 9-10 to early postsecondary   Questions per Passage: 10 or 11

Scores: Overall test score Command of Evidence - 10 questions, two per passage Words in Context - 10 questions, two per passage Analysis in History/Social Studies - 21 questions Analysis in Science - 21 questions

Reminders for the Reading Test Keywords in the question will often clue you in on whether you're being asked about a detail stated in the passage or if you have to make an inference.

Pay attention to the wording of the question. Central idea, central message, and theme will be about the WHOLE passage.  Main idea questions can refer to one paragraph or the whole passage.  Be careful of answer choices that focus in on specific details.

Don’t forget the introduction! Some passages are preceded by a brief introduction.  READ IT! It will help you understand the passage.