CARS Passage Types

Humanities

History, literature, philosophy, religion — often argumentative or interpretive. Look for the author's thesis and the evidence used to support it.

Social Science

Psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics. Data or studies may be described — evaluate methodology and conclusions. Watch for correlation vs. causation.

Ethics & Philosophy

Moral dilemmas or competing ethical frameworks. Common frameworks: utilitarianism (outcomes), deontology (duties), virtue ethics (character).

Arts & Culture

Art, music, architecture, literary criticism. Focus on the author's evaluation and cultural significance.

Time Management

• 10 minutes per passage (9 × 10 = 90 min)
• ~4 minutes reading, ~6 minutes for ~6 questions
• If stuck >90 seconds, flag and move on
• Never leave blanks — no penalty for wrong answers