Strategies for Tackling English Reading Comprehension in Postgraduate Entrance Exams

In the competitive landscape of postgraduate entrance exams, English reading comprehension is a critical component that often poses significant challenges for candidates. The question of whether to meticulously read every word or to focus on identifying keywords has sparked considerable debate among students. This article aims to clarify these approaches, offering insights into how to effectively navigate the complexities of reading passages while maximizing efficiency and comprehension.

Common Questions and Expert Answers

1. Should I Read the Entire Passage Word for Word?

While it might seem logical to read every sentence thoroughly, this approach can be time-consuming and counterproductive, especially given the time constraints of the exam. Instead, a more strategic approach involves skimming the passage to grasp the overall structure and main ideas. This method allows you to allocate your time more effectively, focusing on the most relevant sections rather than getting bogged down in minor details. However, it’s essential to strike a balance. Skipping too much can lead to missing crucial information, so a combination of skimming and targeted reading is often the most effective strategy.

2. How Can Identifying Keywords Help in Reading Comprehension?

Keywords play a pivotal role in enhancing reading efficiency and comprehension. By pinpointing key terms and phrases, you can quickly identify the main themes and supporting details within a passage. This technique is particularly useful for multiple-choice questions, where understanding the context and nuances of the text is essential for selecting the correct answer. For instance, if a question asks about the author’s purpose, focusing on keywords related to motivation or intent can guide you to the relevant sections. Additionally, keywords can help in summarizing paragraphs or identifying the central argument, making it easier to answer questions accurately.

3. What Happens if I Skip Over Important Details?

Skiping over important details can have a significant impact on your performance. In English reading comprehension, many questions are designed to test your understanding of specific facts, opinions, or arguments presented in the passage. If you miss these details, you might find yourself struggling to answer questions correctly, even if you have a general grasp of the overall content. To mitigate this risk, it’s advisable to use a combination of skimming and close reading. For example, you can quickly scan the passage to get a sense of the main ideas and then focus on specific sentences or paragraphs that contain critical information. This approach ensures that you don’t overlook essential details while still maintaining efficiency.