How to Skim
On the ACT Reading Test, I recommend reading the passage before going to the questions to determine two main points that you’ll need to understand the passage as whole and more effectively answer the questions:
- The main idea, thesis, or argument of the passage if it is non-fiction (Passages II, III, and IV); a quick summary of the plot and point-of-view of the fiction passage (Passage I)
- The structure of the passage, i.e. a general idea of “what happens when.”
Armed with these two readings of the passage, you’ll be better equipped to a) know where to look to find the answers to specific questions without line references (even if the questions don’t contain keywords), and b) answer general questions, such as the main idea, purpose structure, point-of-view, etc. of the passage as a whole.
However, this reading process shouldn’t take longer than three minutes – and preferably should take only about 2 minutes – because your time is so precious on the ACT Reading test. So how can you read carefully yet quickly, with understanding yet not dwelling on insignificant details?
First, read the passage at this link on your own.
Then watch this video to learn how to skim effectively!
