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SAT Reading and Writing skill page

SAT Text Structure Practice

Track how a passage is built so purpose and function questions become easier to answer.

Practice text structure in Dolphin SATPractice questions
10-16 min practice time3 questions on pageCraft and Structure
Practice time10-16 min
Practice questions3 questions
Best forCraft and Structure

What this tests

What to know for this SAT skill

Dolphin practice questions

Practice your skill

Question 1 of 3Easy
A sentence gives an example after a broad claim. What is its function?
  1. To introduce an unrelated topic
  2. To support the claim
  3. To contradict the title
  4. To end the passage
Show answer and solution
Correct answerB. To support the claim

Solution walkthrough

  1. An example after a broad claim usually provides support for that claim.
Question 2 of 3Medium
A passage first describes a problem, then explains a proposed solution. Which structure best describes it?
  1. Chronological narrative
  2. Problem and solution
  3. Cause without effect
  4. Definition only
Show answer and solution
Correct answerB. Problem and solution

Solution walkthrough

  1. The passage moves from a problem to a proposed fix, so problem and solution is the best description.
Question 3 of 3Hard
A paragraph mentions a common belief, then introduces evidence that challenges it. What is the purpose of the second part?
  1. To reinforce the belief
  2. To shift toward a counterargument
  3. To summarize unrelated data
  4. To provide a personal anecdote
Show answer and solution
Correct answerB. To shift toward a counterargument

Solution walkthrough

  1. Evidence that challenges a common belief functions as a counterargument.

Avoid these traps

Common mistakes on this skill

Summarizing instead of naming a function

A structure question asks what a sentence or paragraph does, not merely what it says.

Reading the selected sentence in isolation

Its role depends on the claim, example, contrast, or transition around it.

Study plan

How to practice this skill in Dolphin

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  1. Summarize the surrounding text in one sentence.
  2. Label the selected portion with a precise function such as introduces, illustrates, qualifies, or contrasts.
  3. Choose the answer that describes both the content and its relationship to the passage.
Practice text structure in Dolphin SAT

Related practice

Build the surrounding skills

SAT Cross-Text Connections PracticeSAT Central Ideas PracticeSAT Command of Evidence PracticeSAT Reading and Writing skill hub

Skill cluster

Keep practicing SAT Reading and Writing

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FAQ

Questions about SAT Text Structure Practice

What does function mean on the SAT?

It means the job a sentence or phrase performs in developing the text, such as providing evidence or introducing a counterpoint.

How is text structure different from main idea?

Main idea asks what the passage primarily communicates; structure asks how individual parts help communicate it.