The SAT Verbal (officially the “Reading and Writing”) tests vocabulary, reading comprehension, graph/table analysis, grammar and punctuation rules, and rhetorical strategies.
Each question is based on its own short paragraph: only 80-100 words for reading and 55-70 words for writing. But don’t be fooled by their short length—even very short passages can be tricky.
Vocabulary explicitly makes up 20% of the test and plays a major role in additional questions.
One question per short passage to keep focus tight and context precise.
Perform well in Module 1 to unlock the harder Module 2 needed for top scores.
About 20% of questions are vocabulary; words-in-context recur throughout.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Modules | Two (with 10 minute break) |
| Time | 32 minutes each |
| Questions | 27 per module |
| Adaptivity | Module 2 difficulty depends on Module 1 |
| Format | Multiple choice; one question per passage |
Resolve Prep: “Most Nearly Means,” “Function of Sentence,” “Main Purpose,” “Structure of Text,” “Text 1/2”.
Resolve Prep: “Main Idea,” “Specific Detail,” “Choose Support,” “Weaken Argument,” “Complete Text”.
Resolve Prep: “Independent Clause Punctuation,” “Dashes,” “Semicolons,” “Commas,” “Subject Verb Agreement,” “Verb Tense,” “Infinitive and Other Verb Forms,” “Apostrophes,” “Misplaced Modifiers”.
Resolve Prep: “Transition Words,” “Notes to Goal”.
With this new scoring system, it’s entirely possible that two students get the same number wrong but receive radically different scores.
We cover this in our “Getting Started” guide. But start by taking a diagnostic test so you can see the scope of the task ahead of you. If you take a Bluebook test, don’t review the specific questions, so that you can retake the test later.
Decide early whether vocabulary will be part of your prep. Build vocabulary to help Words in Context and overall reading accuracy.
Start with easier writing problem types (Standard English Conventions, Expression of Ideas), then move to reading (Craft and Structure, Information and Ideas).
When fundamentals are solid, take practice tests. Review misses, learn the concept, and apply with targeted practice. Save Bluebook tests for the end: begin with Resolve Prep tests, then transition to Official Bluebook.
Best of luck on your test prep journey!
