Verbal Reasoning-read for info or for understanding?

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Dear SDNers,

For Verbal Reasoning, do you guys think it expects us to read for information or read for understanding? or both?

 

[eDITN]

You should read to understand the author's argument. That doesn't just mean understanding the author's thesis but also the evidence/smaller arguments that the author uses to back up the thesis. You are wasting your time if you try to read for particular detail as a general understanding of the author's opinion and how to apply that opinion should answer a good majority of the questions.

That is true most of the case, but is certainly not always true for every single question. There are detail questions every once in awhile, but, in my opinion, detail really shouldn't be the focus when reading these passages. It simply takes too long and timing is key.

 

[stolen_biscuit]

+1

If you practice a lot and are able to get a little extra time, you will be able to go back to the passage on the few occasions you need details.

 

[drgioiadds]

Read and try to understand the authors argument and how he supports it. Also, they often will present the other point of view.

 

[NickNaylor]

In order to read for understanding... you have to read for information...

But in terms of what VR TESTS you on, it's on more subtle aspects of the passages, not basic recall/"look up" types of questions. In that regard, then, I guess it tests you for understanding.

 

[Morsetlis]

I guarantee you there'll be a "the author's main purpose for writing this passage..." question. Also there'll be "the author most probably meant..." and "the best title for this passage could be..."

Just keep those in mind as you read.

 

[mightymoose02]

I guarantee you there'll be a "the author's main purpose for writing this passage..." question. Also there'll be "the author most probably meant..." and "the best title for this passage could be..."

Just keep those in mind as you read.

I agree with this post. 👍

I think if you can understand the main idea for every passage, you can pretty much guarantee that you will get at least half of the questions right.

 

[earf]

Dear SDNers,

For Verbal Reasoning, do you guys think it expects us to read for information or read for understanding? or both?

Also, one thing people tend to undervalue is the question and answer choices. Read those CAREFULLY for information AND understanding. It's surprising how much information can be found within the question, and how the passage can mislead you if you go back too much.