Let’s be honest—multiple-choice questions can feel like a trap. Especially during ELA exams, where answer choices often look really similar, and passages can be dense or unfamiliar. But here’s the good news: you don’t need to be a walking dictionary or a speed-reader to succeed. What you need are strategies—and I’ve got them.
In this blog post, we’re diving into simple, powerful hacks you can use to improve your reading comprehension and answer multiple-choice questions with confidence.
1. Read the Questions Before the Passage
I know, I know—this might feel like cheating. But it’s not! Reading the questions before the passage gives your brain a purpose. Instead of getting lost in every word, you’re reading with intent. You know what to look for, so your focus naturally sharpens.
👉 Tip: Underline key words in the questions so you know exactly what details to hunt for in the text.
2. Eliminate the Obvious Wrongs
In most exam questions, at least two of the four choices are clearly wrong. One might go completely off-topic. Another might twist the meaning of the passage. Start by crossing those off.
Now you’re down to two—and that’s where the real thinking begins.
3. Look for Text-Based Evidence
Don’t guess based on what feels right. Go back to the passage. Find the line, the phrase, or the idea that directly supports your answer. If you can’t find a match, it’s probably not the best choice.
Bonus tip: If two answers seem correct, the more specific one is usually the winner. Vague answers often mask incorrect thinking.
4. Watch for Trap Words
Be careful with words like “always,” “never,” or “everyone.” These absolute words often make an answer wrong because they leave no room for exceptions. In literature and nonfiction, few things are 100% true all the time.
5. Practice Like a Scientist
Test prep isn’t about doing 100 questions in a row. It’s about doing 10 questions really well—then reviewing your thinking. Look at the ones you got wrong and ask:
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Did I fall for a trap word?
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Did I choose an answer with no text support?
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Was my prediction off?
That’s how you get better—by analyzing your process.
📥 Ready to Practice?
I created a companion worksheet for this lesson to help you build your multiple-choice muscles. It includes guided practice with strategies, followed by a self-assessment section to test your skills. Perfect for students studying independently—or for teachers assigning Regents review in class!
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