Traps on SAT

Trap: The 'Almost Right' Answer

Looks correct but includes an extra detail or assumption not supported by the passage.

Solution to 'Almost Right' Answer Trap

Every answer must be 100% supported by the text. If any part is wrong, eliminate it.

Trap: Extreme Wording

Words like 'always,' 'never,' 'completely,' or 'only' are often incorrect.

Solution to Extreme Wording Trap

Favor moderate wording like 'sometimes,' 'often,' or 'may.'

Trap: Out-of-Scope Information

Answer choices that sound good but introduce new ideas.

Solution to Out-of-Scope Information Trap

If it’s not explicitly in the passage, it’s wrong.

Trap: Opposite Meaning Answers

Some wrong choices say the exact opposite of what the passage states.

Solution to Opposite Meaning Answers Trap

Double-check for negations and opposing keywords.

Trap: The Distracting Detail

Mentions something true from the passage but doesn’t answer the question.

Solution to The Distracting Detail Trap

Make sure the answer directly addresses what’s being asked.

Trap: Overcomplicated Answer Choices

The SAT loves adding unnecessary words.

Solution to Overcomplicated Answer Choices Trap

Shorter is better (as long as it’s grammatically correct).

Trap: Fancy-Sounding Words

Some answers sound 'sophisticated' but don’t fit the sentence logically.

Solution to Fancy-Sounding Words Trap

Stick to clear, concise, and direct writing.

Trap: Misplaced Transitions

Some choices use a transition word incorrectly.

Solution to Misplaced Transitions Trap

Make sure transition words match the sentence relationship.