Passage structure recognition and question type strategies tested on the GMAT reading comprehension question type.
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- What is the primary purpose structure in GMAT passages?
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The passage presents a main argument or thesis, then supports it with evidence or examples.- How do compare-contrast passages typically organize information?
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They present two positions or viewpoints, often highlighting differences and sometimes showing where each is strong or weak.- What is a chronological passage structure on the GMAT?
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The passage traces the development or evolution of an idea, theory, or historical event over time.- What does a problem-solution passage structure contain?
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A problem is identified, and then one or more potential solutions are discussed and evaluated.- How do cause-effect passages organize their information?
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They establish a cause and trace its effects, or describe an effect and discuss possible causes.- What is a main idea question asking for?
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The central point or primary purpose that the entire passage supports; the big picture, not a detail.- What must you do to answer an inference question correctly?
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Use information explicitly stated in the passage to deduce something not directly stated; avoid assumptions beyond what the passage supports.- What is a detail question testing?
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Your ability to locate and accurately recall a specific fact or statement made explicitly in the passage.- How should you approach an author tone or attitude question?
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Identify the author's perspective and emotional stance toward the subject, using descriptive words (skeptical, enthusiastic, neutral, critical, etc.).- What is a function question on the GMAT asking?
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Why the author included a specific phrase, sentence, or paragraph; what role does it play in the overall argument.- What is the best first step when reading a GMAT passage?
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Read actively for structure and main idea; identify the passage type and author's position before diving into details.- Why should you identify the passage structure before reading questions?
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Knowing the structure helps you predict where supporting points will appear and quickly locate information when a question asks for details.- When should you look back at the passage while answering questions?
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Always, for detail and inference questions; verify your answer against the actual text rather than relying on memory.- How do you eliminate wrong answer choices on GMAT reading questions?
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Remove answers that contradict the passage, go too far (over-state or under-state), or are irrelevant to the question asked.- How do you distinguish between inference and detail questions?
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Detail questions ask what the passage explicitly states; inference questions ask what you can logically conclude from what is stated.
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