Discrete Question Tactics
Fast standalone question solving and estimation methods
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Discrete Question Tactics
Recognize the Freestanding Question
Each science section embeds 15-16 discrete questions (in sets of 2-3) that need no passage. They test straight content: equations, definitions, structures, pathways. Treat them as free points — they should take 30-45 seconds each, banking time for passages.
Elimination Discipline
Read the stem, predict an answer BEFORE reading options, then eliminate. Wrong options on discretes are usually: the right value with wrong units, a related-but-different term, the reciprocal or negation of the answer, or a true statement that doesn't answer the question asked.
Triage
If a discrete requires a fact you simply don't know, guess immediately, flag it, and move on — unlike passage questions, staring cannot conjure the content. Return only if time remains.
Key Takeaways
- Discretes are speed opportunities: 30-45 seconds each
- Predict first, then eliminate
- Learn the four standard distractor molds
- Never let one unknown fact consume passage time
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