Reading & Literary Analysis

• Theme: What message or idea does the text explore?
• Character development: How do characters change or reveal traits?
• Tone and mood: What feeling does the author create?
• Figurative language: Similes, metaphors, symbolism, irony
• Text structure: How is the text organized? (chronological, cause/effect, etc.)
• Close reading: Analyzing specific passages for deeper meaning

Writing

• Narrative writing: Telling a story with voice, pacing, and structure
• Argumentative writing: Making claims, supporting with evidence, addressing counterarguments
• Informative writing: Explaining a topic clearly and thoroughly
• Research writing: Using sources, citing properly, avoiding plagiarism

Grammar & Style

• Sentence structure: Simple, compound, complex, avoiding fragments/run-ons
• Punctuation: Commas, semicolons, colons, quotation marks
• Usage: Subject-verb agreement, verb tense consistency, pronoun clarity
• Style: Word choice, tone, transitions, clarity

1. Know the Test Format

Understanding what’s on the test helps you study smarter:

• • SAT/ACT: Reading, Writing/English, Math, (Science for ACT), optional Essay
• • Board Exams (India): Subject-specific papers (Math, Science, English, Social Studies, etc.)
• • School Tests: Often based on recent units or chapters

2. Set a Study Schedule

Break your prep into manageable chunks:

• • Review one subject per day
• • Use short sessions (30–45 minutes) with breaks
• • Mix reading, practice questions, and review

3. Use Active Study Techniques

Passive reading isn’t enough—try these:

• • Flashcards for vocabulary, formulas, key facts
• • Practice questions to test understanding
• • Teach-back method: Explain a concept out loud as if teaching someone else
• • Quizzes: Reinforce memory and identify weak spots

4. Practice with Real Questions

Use past papers or sample questions:

• • Time yourself to simulate test conditions
• • Review mistakes and understand why they happened
• • Track progress over time