PSAT English

Difficult words are in the readings and the questions.

Learn all the vocabulary you can.

The definitions of words are tested "in context."

especially words with multiple meanings

Which word in the English language has the most meanings?

Set 

Grammar is tested on the digital PSAT/SAT In how many ways?

2 ways

Grammar is tested on the digital PSAT/SAT What are the 2 ways?

editing and revising 

know the difference between complete and run-on sentences and fragments: a complete sentence contains a subject and a verb

A run-on sentence is two compete sentences without punctuation or conjunctions between them. A sentence fragment is missing either a subject or a verb.

Use logical connecting words

connecting word doesn't have to be in the middle, it can be in the beginning or a connecting phrase.

Make logical comparisons. Compare like objects.| ex: which is better?

I am better at math than everyone in my class. OR I am better at math than everyone else in my class. If you say everyone, your including yourself too.

Place descriptors in logical spots. Descriptors should be near the word or phrase they modify. ex: Which is better?

in the second one purring softly describes the kitten.

Remove repetitive and irrelevant wording. ex:

Main/central idea

• Covers a majority of the details in the text

• Not new ideas

• Not one small or minor detail

• Not contradict information in the text

Main (central) Ideas vs. Details

Details: usually answered from one particular sentence in the text Tip: be specific and use keywords for help

"according to the text....."

Authors purpose questions

To preform entertain and persuade 

All choices are usually 2 parts. What are the 2 parts?

1. The purpose

2. Information from the text

Tips

• Look at the choices carefully...BOTH PARTS MUST BE TRUE

• Read carefully

• Decide the purpose in your own words. Eliminate any choices which do not apply.