SAT Reading Passages Practice Questions and Explanation

1) The essay explored the impact of urbanization on natural habitats. Cities expand to meet human needs, often resulting in the loss of forests and wetlands. “Urban growth and environmental preservation are frequently at odds,” the author observed.

What type of relationship is described in the passage?

2) The article compared the learning processes of humans and artificial intelligence (AI). Humans rely on intuition and creativity, while AI excels at processing large amounts of data quickly. “Both have their strengths, but they are not interchangeable,” the author argued.

What relationship is established in the passage?

3) The author noted that the discovery of the new species was “serendipitous,” occurring during an unrelated expedition. “We weren’t searching for anything specific, yet we stumbled upon something extraordinary,” she said.

What does the word “serendipitous” most likely mean as used in the passage?

4) The speaker called the athlete’s performance “exemplary,” noting her focus, determination, and grace under pressure. “She’s a role model for all aspiring athletes,” he added.

What does the word “exemplary” most likely mean as used in the passage?

5) The journalist described the politician’s speech as “enigmatic,” noting that it left many listeners puzzled about his true intentions. “It was a masterful blend of rhetoric and ambiguity,” she observed.

What does the word “enigmatic” most likely mean as used in the passage?

6) The historian explained the importance of primary sources in understanding historical events. “Original documents, firsthand accounts, and artifacts provide direct insights that secondary sources cannot offer,” he stated. These materials are invaluable for constructing accurate historical narratives.

Which evidence best supports the value of primary sources?

7) The author described the forest as “a labyrinth of greenery,” where light filtered through a canopy of leaves, creating a serene, otherworldly atmosphere. “It was a sanctuary of silence, broken only by the occasional rustle of a small animal,” she wrote.

What does the word “labyrinth” most likely mean as used in the passage?

8) The author described the noise of the bustling city as “cacophonous,” with car horns blaring, people shouting, and construction machines roaring in the background. “It’s a symphony of chaos,” he remarked.

What does the word “cacophonous” most likely mean as used in the passage?

9) The entrepreneur described her approach to problem-solving as “innovative,” emphasizing her ability to think outside the box and challenge conventional methods. “Creativity is the cornerstone of progress,” she explained.

What does the word “innovative” most likely mean as used in the passage?

10) The author described the protagonist as “tenacious,” never giving up despite facing numerous obstacles. “Her determination was unwavering,” the text stated.

What does the word “tenacious” most likely mean as used in the passage?

11) The scientist described the experiment’s results as “preliminary,” emphasizing that more research was needed to confirm the findings. “This is just the first step in understanding the phenomenon,” she explained.

What does the word “preliminary” most likely mean as used in the passage?

12) The author described the differences between two types of art: abstract and realistic. Abstract art relies on shapes and colors to evoke emotion, while realistic art aims to represent subjects as they appear in real life. “Both forms of art have unique ways of engaging viewers,” the author concluded.

What type of relationship is discussed in the passage?

13) The professor described the student’s argument as “lucid,” praising its clear structure and well-supported points. “It was a joy to read such a coherent essay,” she noted.

What does the word “lucid” most likely mean as used in the passage?

14) The biographer described the artist as “prolific,” noting that he had created over a thousand paintings, sculptures, and sketches during his lifetime. “His output was astonishing,” she wrote.

What does the word “prolific” most likely mean as used in the passage?

15) The article compared the economic strategies of two countries during a recession. One focused on austerity measures to cut spending, while the other invested in stimulus packages to boost the economy. “Both approaches have advantages and drawbacks depending on the circumstances,” the author observed.

What type of relationship is explored in the passage?

16) The author referred to the argument as “speculative,” emphasizing that it was based on theory rather than concrete evidence. “More data is needed to support this claim,” she wrote.

What does the word “speculative” most likely mean as used in the passage?

17) The author describes how technology has revolutionized education. “Online platforms have made learning resources accessible to people in remote areas, bridging the gap in educational opportunities,” the author writes. This shift has also allowed students to learn at their own pace.

Which evidence supports the idea that technology improves access to education?

18) The researcher explained how the loss of one species in an ecosystem can disrupt the entire food chain. For example, the decline of bees affects pollination, which in turn impacts crops and the animals that rely on them. “Each species plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance,” she noted.

What relationship is highlighted in the passage?

19) The writer referred to the mansion as “dilapidated,” with crumbling walls, broken windows, and overgrown weeds surrounding it. “It’s a shadow of its former grandeur,” he observed.

What does the word “dilapidated” most likely mean as used in the passage?

20) The article outlined the impact of renewable energy adoption on employment. “Wind and solar industries have created millions of jobs worldwide, particularly in installation and maintenance,” the report stated. This growth continues to outpace traditional energy sectors.

What evidence supports the claim that renewable energy adoption boosts employment?

21) The researcher described the ancient artifact as “meticulously crafted,” noting the intricate carvings and precise details. “Every line and curve tells a story,” she observed, “revealing the artistry of its creators.”

What does the phrase “meticulously crafted” suggest about the artifact?

22) The author argues that public libraries are essential community resources. “They provide free access to knowledge, technology, and a safe space for learning,” she noted. Libraries also host events that foster community engagement.

Which evidence supports the claim that libraries are essential?

23) The character’s decision was described as “pragmatic,” driven by practicality rather than emotion. “She chose the option that made the most sense under the circumstances,” the narrator explained.

What does the word “pragmatic” most likely mean as used in the passage?

24) The author described the new policy as “contentious,” noting that it sparked heated debates among lawmakers and citizens alike. “Opinions are sharply divided,” she observed.

What does the word “contentious” most likely mean as used in the passage?

25) The climbers described the ascent as “grueling,” requiring relentless effort and testing their endurance to the limit. “Every step felt like a battle against gravity,” one climber said.

What does the word “grueling” most likely mean as used in the passage?

26) The artist’s work was described as “evocative,” capturing the raw emotions of joy, sorrow, and nostalgia in every piece. “Her paintings speak to the heart,” the critic wrote.

What does the word “evocative” most likely mean as used in the passage?

27) The poet described the twilight as “ethereal,” with soft hues of pink and purple blending into the evening sky. “It felt like a dream painted across the horizon,” she reflected.

What does the word “ethereal” most likely mean as used in the passage?

28) The scientist described the laboratory’s environment as “sterile,” with every surface meticulously cleaned to prevent contamination. “Precision is paramount in our work,” she explained.

What does the word “sterile” most likely mean as used in the passage?

29) The politician referred to the treaty as “unprecedented,” marking the first time such a comprehensive agreement had been reached. “This is a historic step forward,” he declared.

What does the word “unprecedented” most likely mean as used in the passage?

30) The journalist described the investigation as “meticulous,” with every detail examined thoroughly before conclusions were drawn. “No stone was left unturned,” she wrote.

What does the word “meticulous” most likely mean as used in the passage?

31) The adventurer described the desert as “arid,” with endless stretches of sand and a scorching sun overhead. “Not a drop of water for miles,” he said.
What does the word “arid” most likely mean as used in the passage?

32) The narrator described the mansion as “opulent,” with grand chandeliers, intricate tapestries, and lavish furnishings adorning every room. “It felt like stepping into a palace,” she remarked.

What does the word “opulent” most likely mean as used in the passage?

33) The weather during the trek was described as “unpredictable,” with sudden shifts from sunshine to heavy rain. “We had to adapt quickly to the changing conditions,” the guide explained.

What does the word “unpredictable” most likely mean as used in the passage?

34) The scientist highlighted the importance of biodiversity in maintaining ecosystems. “Each species plays a role in its environment, contributing to the balance and resilience of the ecosystem,” she stated. A loss of biodiversity can disrupt food chains and ecological processes.

Which evidence best supports the claim that biodiversity is essential for ecosystems?

35) The speaker referred to the neighborhood park as a “haven” for families. “On any given day, you can find children laughing, parents chatting, and friends enjoying a picnic under the shade of the oak trees,” she said.

What does the word “haven” most likely mean as used in the passage?

36) The author described the athlete’s recovery from injury as “arduous,” requiring months of grueling physical therapy and unwavering dedication. “Every small victory was hard-earned,” he remarked.

What does the word “arduous” most likely mean as used in the passage?

37) The travel writer described the waterfall as “majestic,” with its cascading waters creating a thunderous roar and a shimmering mist. “It’s nature’s masterpiece,” she marveled.

What does the word “majestic” most likely mean as used in the passage?

38) The historian discussed the role of propaganda during wartime. “Governments used posters and broadcasts to rally public support and maintain morale,” he explained. These efforts shaped public perception and influenced the outcome of conflicts.

Which evidence best supports the claim that propaganda was effective in wartime?

39) The explorer referred to the mountain range as “formidable,” with its jagged peaks, unpredictable weather, and treacherous trails. “This is not a challenge for the faint-hearted,” he remarked.

What does the word “formidable” most likely mean as used in the passage?

40) The scientist argues that renewable energy sources are the key to combating climate change. “Solar and wind energy produce no greenhouse gas emissions during operation, unlike fossil fuels,” she explains. Transitioning to these sources could significantly reduce the global carbon footprint.

What evidence supports the claim that renewable energy benefits the environment?

41) The biologist explained the importance of pollinators like bees in agriculture. “Without pollinators, many crops would fail to produce fruit, leading to food shortages,” she warned. Bees are critical to the health of ecosystems and human food supplies.

What evidence best illustrates the role of pollinators in agriculture?

42) The inventor’s presentation was described as “persuasive,” leaving the audience convinced of the viability of her new technology. “Her arguments were both logical and compelling,” the report stated.

What does the word “persuasive” most likely mean as used in the passage?

43) The article critiques fast fashion for its environmental impact. “Producing cheap, disposable clothing consumes vast amounts of water and generates significant waste,” the author states. Additionally, the fast fashion industry relies heavily on non-renewable resources.

Which evidence best illustrates the environmental harm caused by fast fashion?

44) The historian described the empire’s fall as “inevitable,” given its internal corruption, economic decline, and weakened defenses. “The writing was on the wall,” he concluded.

What does the word “inevitable” most likely mean as used in the passage?

45) The speaker’s tone was described as “unwavering,” as she confidently addressed the audience without hesitation. “Her determination was evident in every word,” the reporter noted.

What does the word “unwavering” most likely mean as used in the passage?

46) The writer described the small coastal village as “quaint,” with its cobblestone streets, colorful cottages, and charming harbor. “It feels like stepping back in time,” she said.

What does the word “quaint” most likely mean as used in the passage?

47) The author described the landscape after the storm as “desolate,” with uprooted trees, flooded fields, and an eerie silence hanging in the air. “It was a scene of devastation,” he remarked.

What does the word “desolate” most likely mean as used in the passage?

48) The scientist referred to the experimental results as “anomalous,” as they deviated significantly from expected outcomes. “We need to investigate further to understand this discrepancy,” she said.

What does the word “anomalous” most likely mean as used in the passage?

49) The musician’s performance was described as “haunting,” leaving the audience deeply moved and contemplative. “The melody lingered in the air, resonating long after the final note,” the critic wrote.

What does the word “haunting” most likely mean as used in the passage?

50) The scientist’s discovery was hailed as “groundbreaking,” as it opened up entirely new possibilities for treating the disease. “This marks a turning point in medical research,” the journal reported.

What does the word “groundbreaking” most likely mean as used in the passage?

51) The city’s decision to revamp its public transportation system was described as “ambitious.” “Such a bold initiative requires careful planning and significant investment,” the mayor admitted.

What does the word “ambitious” most likely mean as used in the passage?

52) The reviewer called the book’s plot “intricate,” with multiple storylines that wove together in unexpected ways. “Each detail connects to the larger narrative in surprising and clever ways,” she noted.

What does the word “intricate” most likely mean as used in the passage?

53) The historian highlights the pivotal role of transportation in economic development. “The construction of railroads in the 19th century dramatically increased trade efficiency and connected distant markets,” he notes. This innovation laid the groundwork for modern logistics systems.

Which evidence best supports the claim that transportation enhances economic development?

54) The author noted that climate change is intensifying wildfires worldwide. Rising temperatures dry out vegetation, creating ideal conditions for fires to spread rapidly. “Each degree of warming increases the likelihood of catastrophic fires,” the author warned.

What relationship is described in the passage?

55) The speaker discussed the health benefits of regular exercise. “Physical activity reduces stress, boosts mood, and improves overall cardiovascular health,” she explained. These benefits are evident in both short-term and long-term scenarios.

Which evidence best supports the claim that exercise improves health?

56) The economist emphasized the importance of small businesses to the economy. “They account for nearly half of all private-sector jobs and drive innovation in various industries,” she explained. Supporting small businesses ensures a diverse and resilient economic landscape.

What evidence supports the claim that small businesses are vital to the economy?

57) The teacher highlighted the importance of fostering creativity in education. “Creative thinking helps students solve problems, adapt to challenges, and innovate in various fields,” she argued. Encouraging creativity should be a central goal of modern education systems.

Which evidence supports the idea that creativity is important in education?

58) The author described the town square as “bustling,” filled with market vendors, children playing, and neighbors chatting. “It’s the heart of our community,” one resident noted.

What does the word “bustling” most likely mean as used in the passage?

59) The author discusses the importance of sleep for mental and physical health. “Studies show that individuals who consistently get enough sleep perform better cognitively and are less prone to illness,” the author writes. Additionally, lack of sleep has been linked to chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension.

Which statement provides the best evidence to support the claim that sleep is crucial for health?

60) The biologist described the new species of bird as “elusive,” noting that it was rarely seen and often hid deep in the forest canopy. “Spotting one is a rare privilege,” she said.

What does the word “elusive” most likely mean as used in the passage?