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Master the process of elimination technique to increase accuracy on multiple choice questions, even when unsure of the correct answer.
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On a multiple-choice question, you're certain that choices A and D are wrong but can't decide between B and C. What are your odds and what should you do?
The math:
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You've DOUBLED your odds just by eliminating!
What to do:
Key principle: Even eliminating ONE wrong answer improves your odds from 25% to 33%. Eliminating TWO gives you 50%.
Answer: You have a 50% chance of getting it right. Make your best guess, mark it, and move on.
What are common "wrong answer" patterns on SAT Reading that help with elimination?
Five types of wrong answers to eliminate:
1. Too Extreme Contains words like "always," "never," "proves," "all," "none," "completely." SAT correct answers usually use softer language: "suggests," "may," "often," "some."
2. Too Narrow (Overly Specific) Focuses on one detail when the question asks about the whole passage. "The passage is mainly about the author's childhood bicycle" when the passage covers the author's entire life.
3. Too Broad (Overly General) Goes beyond the scope of the passage. "The passage argues all governments should reform" when it only discusses one country.
4. Distortion (Almost Right) Contains elements from the passage but changes, reverses, or misrepresents them. Passage says "A causes B." Answer says "B causes A." Close but WRONG.
5. Outside Knowledge Uses information that may be TRUE but is NOT in the passage. On the SAT, only passage-based answers are correct.
Strategy: Before choosing the "right" answer, eliminate wrong ones. You can often eliminate 2-3 choices quickly using these patterns.
Answer: Look for extreme language, scope issues, distortions, and outside knowledge.
On SAT Math, you need to find in . The choices are: (A) 3, (B) 5, (C) 7, (D) 10. How do you use backsolving?
Backsolving: Plug each answer choice into the equation.
(A) : โ (B) : โ (No need to check C and D)
Time spent: About 15 seconds (faster than solving algebraically for some students)
Backsolving strategy:
When backsolving is best:
Answer: (B)
On SAT Writing, the question asks for the best transition. You can eliminate two choices but the remaining two both seem reasonable. How do you decide?
When two transition answers seem correct:
Step 1: Re-read the SURROUNDING sentences carefully
Step 2: Check for subtle differences
Step 3: Read both options in context Replace the transition with each option and read the full paragraph. Which one creates better logical flow?
Step 4: Trust the LOGIC, not the sound Sometimes an answer "sounds right" but creates the wrong logical relationship. Focus on MEANING.
Example: "The company cut costs. _____, it hired 200 new employees."
Answer: Focus on the exact logical relationship. Read both in context. Choose the one that creates the correct meaning, not just the one that sounds pleasant.
Describe a systematic process of elimination strategy for SAT questions you find difficult.
The Systematic POE Framework:
Step 1: Read and Understand (15-20 sec)
Step 2: First Pass Elimination (15-20 sec) Go through each choice quickly:
Step 3: Second Pass Comparison (20-30 sec) For remaining choices:
Step 4: Final Decision (10 sec)
Mindset tips:
Expected outcomes:
Answer: Read โ eliminate obvious wrong answers โ compare remaining โ choose the best and move on.