Strategies to Boost Your Score in the Postgraduate Entrance Exam English Reading Section

The English reading section of the postgraduate entrance exam can be a challenging part of the test, but with the right strategies, you can significantly improve your score. This article aims to provide you with actionable tips and insights to help you master this section and achieve your desired results. Whether you're struggling with time management, comprehension, or vocabulary, we've got you covered with practical advice that goes beyond the typical study guides.

Common Questions and Answers

1. How Can I Improve My Speed in Reading Comprehension?

Improving your reading speed in the comprehension section is crucial for maximizing your score. One effective method is to practice skimming and scanning techniques. Skimming involves quickly reading through the passage to get a general idea of the main ideas, while scanning focuses on finding specific information within the text. Here are some additional tips:

• Preview the questions before reading the passage to identify key terms and concepts.
• Use a finger or a pen to guide your eyes along the text, which can help maintain focus and speed.
• Practice reading passages aloud to improve your familiarity with different writing styles and pacing.
• Set a timer for your practice sessions to simulate the exam environment and build time management skills.

Another important aspect is to eliminate distractions during your study sessions. Find a quiet place where you can concentrate without interruptions. Additionally, reading a variety of materials, such as newspapers, magazines, and academic articles, can enhance your reading speed and comprehension. Remember, consistency is key. Regular practice will help you develop the ability to quickly grasp the essence of a passage and answer questions accurately.

2. What Are the Best Techniques for Answering Multiple-Choice Questions?

Multiple-choice questions in the reading section can be tricky, but there are strategies to help you navigate them effectively. First, always read the question carefully and identify the key terms. This will help you focus on the relevant parts of the passage. Here are some additional techniques:

• Eliminate obviously incorrect answers. This can narrow down your choices and increase your chances of selecting the right answer.
• Look for context clues in the passage. These clues can provide hints about the intended meaning of the question.
• If you're unsure about an answer, try to eliminate two options first. This can sometimes help you narrow it down to the best choice.
• Pay attention to transition words and phrases, as they often indicate the main idea or the relationship between different parts of the passage.

It's also important to manage your time wisely. Don't spend too much time on any single question. If you're stuck, make an educated guess and move on. You can always come back to the question if you have time left at the end. Additionally, practicing with past exam papers can help you get familiar with the types of questions asked and the format of the exam. This will build your confidence and improve your performance.

3. How Can I Build a Stronger Vocabulary for the Exam?

A strong vocabulary is essential for understanding the passages and answering questions accurately. Here are some effective ways to build and expand your vocabulary:

• Read widely and varied materials. This exposes you to different words and contexts, helping you learn and remember new vocabulary.
• Use flashcards to memorize new words. Write the word on one side and its definition and a sentence example on the other.
• Practice using new words in sentences. This helps reinforce your understanding and retention.
• Keep a vocabulary journal where you write down new words and their meanings. Review it regularly to keep the words fresh in your mind.

Another useful strategy is to learn words in groups, such as synonyms or words that are related by theme. This can help you make connections and remember them better. Additionally, using word roots and prefixes can help you decipher the meanings of unfamiliar words. For example, knowing that "bio-" means life and "graph" means to write can help you understand words like "biology" or "biography." Regular practice and exposure to new words will gradually build your vocabulary and improve your reading comprehension skills.