Most SAT passages are manageable; the language is modern and direct. However, we also have to tackle passages with pretty complex – at times downright convoluted – framing. In addition to this, most international students don’t have the same exposure to American history and literature that students from the USA have. Now, if you’re ambitious and determined, you may do the most logical thing: start reading content that will help you with such reading passages. But where should you begin? When you search for SAT reading sources, you get super long lists, which, frankly speaking, are overwhelming as well as unrealistic. You don’t have the time to read everything. In fact, many students simply give up on such passages due to frustration. But despair not, for there is another way. We’ve curated a list of the top five sources (topic-specific) for improving your reading for the SAT.
Science
Let’s start with the easiest. SAT passages based on science are the simplest to process. So, if you’re just starting out on your reading journey, begin here.
Easy-to-understand science articles
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/magazine
https://www.scientificamerican.com/
Humanities
Passages based on psychology, economics, socio-cultural phenomena, etc., are simple enough to read but sometimes the ideas may be unfamiliar or complex. You can gain confidence regarding these themes by reading from the following sources.
https://www.aldaily.com/ This website gives you free access to thousands of articles. It’s a great resource to practice reading advanced language.
https://www.nytimes.com/ This is a great source for modern opinion pieces on a wide range of topics.
History
History passages are usually the most challenging as the context is unfamiliar and usually the language is difficult as some passages are extracts from texts written around 200 years ago. The easiest solution to this problem is to watch the Crash Course series on YouTube. Not only will this give you a great overview of history but it will also help you improve your language in general.
History explained in an engaging way with SAT vocabulary
Crash Course US History
Crash Course World History
Watch this space for more tips!
Coming up…
Which historical incidents are a must-know for SAT?
Sources you should read for SAT Literature passages.