Preparing for the SAT is never just about memorizing vocabulary or practicing math equations. One section that often challenges students is the Craft and Structure portion of the SAT Reading test. This section measures how well you understand the author’s word choices, text organization, and the deeper purpose behind a passage.
If you’ve ever wondered how to improve craft and structure SAT scores effectively, you’re not alone. Many students struggle here because it requires critical reading skills, not just memorization. In this guide, we’ll cover proven strategies, practice tips, and study hacks to help you master this section and boost your overall SAT score.
What Is the Craft and Structure Section on the SAT?
The SAT Reading test includes questions that ask you to examine how a passage is written rather than just what it says. These questions fall under the category of Craft and Structure.
Here’s what you may encounter:
- Word Meaning in Context: Determining the meaning of a word or phrase based on how it’s used.
- Author’s Purpose: Understanding why the author chose a particular tone, argument, or example.
- Text Structure: Analyzing how sentences or paragraphs fit together.
- Point of View: Identifying the author’s perspective or stance on an issue.
- Evidence and Rhetoric: Recognizing techniques like analogy, repetition, or persuasive appeals.
These questions test not just comprehension, but your ability to think like a writer.
Why Craft and Structure Questions Matter
Many students underestimate this part of the test, focusing heavily on math or vocabulary instead. But the SAT rewards strong readers. Craft and Structure questions account for a significant portion of the Reading section, and improving here can raise your scaled score substantially.
Colleges value these skills too. Understanding craft and structure shows you can analyze complex texts—a key ability in higher education and beyond.
Common Challenges Students Face
Before learning how to improve, it’s useful to know where students often go wrong:
Guessing meanings without context
Overthinking author’s purpose and choosing overly complicated answers
Skipping passage structure and focusing only on single sentences
Time pressure leading to rushed reading and mistakes
Recognizing these pitfalls is the first step toward overcoming them.
Proven Tips to Improve Craft and Structure SAT Scores
Always Read in Context
When a question asks about the meaning of a word, don’t rely on the dictionary definition. Instead, look at the surrounding sentences to see how the word is being used. Context changes meaning.
Identify Signal Words
Transitions like however, therefore, in contrast, or similarly reveal the author’s structure. Paying attention to these markers can guide you toward the correct answer.
Ask “Why Did the Author Write This?”
Every passage has a purpose. Is it to persuade, inform, or entertain? Keeping this in mind makes purpose questions much easier.
Eliminate Extreme Answer Choices
On the SAT, answers that sound too extreme (“always,” “never,” “completely”) are often wrong. Look for balanced, evidence-based options instead.
Practice Active Reading
Underline key phrases, circle transition words, and jot quick notes. Active engagement keeps you focused and sharpens comprehension.
Study Strategies That Work
Use Official SAT Practice Tests
No resource is better than official College Board materials. Their practice tests provide authentic Craft and Structure questions.
Build Your Vocabulary Through Reading
Instead of memorizing long lists, read widely newspapers, scientific journals, historical texts. Exposure to different writing styles improves both word recognition and comprehension.
Review Your Mistakes
Don’t just practice analyze. Each wrong answer is a chance to identify patterns in your errors. Did you misread tone? Skip over a key transition? Recognizing these mistakes prevents repeating them.
Timed Practice Sessions
Since the SAT is timed, practice under real test conditions. This helps you balance accuracy with speed, a critical factor in improving your score.
How Teachers and Tutors Can Help
Working with an SAT tutor or teacher can accelerate your progress. Professionals can:
- Point out where you lose points most often.
- Provide targeted practice exercises.
- Offer feedback on reading strategies.
Even if you self-study, consider group sessions or workshops for added support.
Digital Tools and Resources
Today’s students have access to powerful study tools. A few options include:
- Khan Academy’s SAT Prep (official partner of College Board).
- Flashcard apps like Quizlet for vocabulary.
- Reading analysis apps that break down tone and structure.
Using digital tools keeps practice engaging and efficient.
Final Practice Hacks Before Test Day
- Don’t Rush: Slow down enough to read carefully, even if time feels tight.
- Trust Evidence: Choose answers that can be supported by text, not by memory or assumption.
- Stay Calm: Anxiety can cloud reasoning. Practice relaxation techniques before the test.
- Simulate Exam Conditions: Take at least one full-length test to prepare your stamina.
Final Thoughts
Mastering the Craft and Structure section of the SAT is all about strategy, context, and practice. By focusing on how authors build meaning, organize their arguments, and use language, you’ll sharpen your critical reading skillsand your SAT score will reflect it.
Remember, improving isn’t about overnight memorization. It’s about steady growth: reading widely, practicing intentionally, and reviewing mistakes. With the proven tips in this guide, you’ll not only learn how to improve Craft and Structure SAT performance but also strengthen skills that will serve you well in college and beyond.
