Graphs and Charts / Paired Passages

Graphs and charts

• Information most directly relevant to the question will be presented at the end of the passage

• In many questions answers can be identified based strictly on wording of the question and answer choices

• Always begin by carefully reading the passage (usually last sentence) and the question because these places tell you what claim or conclusion to focus on

• Pay attention to words such as majority, half, most common

  • Only portion of graph = relevant so this tells you what to focus on

• Double check answers with graph (especially with graphs that show negative relationships)

Paired passages

• Correct answers can involve areas of agreement and disagreement between passages

• Aim to deal with smallest amount of information at any given time

Process for paired passages

1. Read text 1 - identify main point

2. Read text 2 - identify main point

3. Write the relationship

4. Answer the questions in your own words

5. Look at the choices and pick the ones closest to your answer

6. Also use general test-taking strategies to eliminate answers (such as extreme wording, etc)

Important to determine the relationship between passages upfront because the question will always test understanding of that connection

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