Let the evidence do the talking.
A convincing answer isn't enough. The right answer must be supported by the text.
Read the task first
Identify whether you need a main idea, inference, supporting evidence, or word meaning. This gives your reading a purpose.
Make a small prediction
Summarize the relevant idea in a few plain words before looking at the choices. For an inference, take only one logical step beyond what is stated.
Eliminate overclaims
Watch for answers that change 'some' to 'all,' turn a correlation into a cause, or add an unsupported motive. An answer can be true in real life and still not be supported here.
Prove your choice
Point to the exact phrase or data that supports the answer. If two choices remain, compare their scope and strength to the passage.
Text: Plants under blue light grew taller in one experiment. Supported: blue light was associated with greater height under those conditions. Unsupported: blue light makes every plant grow faster.