1.1 SAT Critical Reading - Sentence Completions

Introduction: The SAT Critical Reading section has been a thorn in many students' sides for some time.  In fact, many standardized test experts suggest that it is the most difficult section to gain points.  Though I agree on some level, there are certainly places on the SAT Critical Reading section that are more predictable, where students may rely on preparation for stronger accuracy on questions.  Preparation is especially important for the sentence completion section since the development of your vocabulary plays a fundamental role for scoring well. Here's the painful truth: in order to score higher on this SAT section, you need to focus on building your arsenal of vocabulary words even though making great gains in vocabulary may only yield a few more questions correct on the exam.  Simply put, you have to give a lot to gain a little.  This approach, as we will see, makes sense if you want to answer the last questions correctly.  Additionally, the methods for pacing and keeping yourself mentally unshaken are two elements that can make a huge difference in your score.  We will discuss these ideas at greater length, connecting them to the sentence completion portion of the exam.  Remember that this is only a portion of the exam, though a portion that can make a big difference between an average and above average score. 

SAT Sentence Completion Facts

Here are the facts SAT sentence completion section:

• There are 19 sentence completion questions split among three sections.  The questions are served on a plate of 8, 5, and 6 respectively. 
• The plate of 8 and 5 questions is served to you in 25 minute sections; whereas, the last set, set of 6, is served to you in a 20 minute section.
• The selection of words for use in the answer choices is NOT a random set of words; instead you will find that, though not narrow in nature, certain words tend to pop up over and over again.
• The sequence of question is extremely important; each set is always sequenced from the easiest question to the hardest question.
• You will encounter both single word choice blank and double word choice blanks.
• There is a ¼ point deduction for incorrect answers to prevent guessing.
• Questions are measured by difficulty from 1 to 5.  1 as the easiest and 5 as the toughest. 

Practice Test Questions

SAT Practice tests for Critical Reading

SAT Practice quizzes for Critical Reading

What follows is a set of strategies that will prepare you to build vocabulary muscle and accuracy on these questions.  Remember that a strong focus on creating an SAT arsenal of words is key.