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