My LR Strategy
Posted: Sun Dec 05, 2010 5:32 pm
I just wanted to share with you guys who are taking the December test next week, as well as those studying for upcoming tests, my personal method for improving my LR score. Some of you may already employ this technique, but some who are struggling may not, and it won't hurt to give it a shot. I was having some difficulty getting past a -5 on LR sections, and since trying this I have consistently been in the -1 to -3 range.
I read a post on here a couple of weeks back, where someone was recommending reading dense materials to train the brain to process text-based information. The author of the post stated that we live in a world now where we are all watching video clips and getting things broadcasted to us, and as a result it interferes with our ability to read efficiently. I couldn't agree more. Most of my incorrect answer choices on LR were due to missing a key word, or forgetting a critical idea from the passage that led me to select the "attractive" wrong answer almost every time.
I decided to read each question in pictures in my head instead of reading the words and trying to process information that way.
Basically as I read the question, each piece of information is drawn onto the blank image in my mind if you will. It helps to create characters, exaggerate scenes or actions, etc. I guess it's similar to the way Blueprint tries to teach their students. I do the same thing, just quicker, for each answer choice. For me, it has helped tremendously. I realize it may sound silly. I realize it may sound as if it's even more work. It isn't. Those of you who may find yourself struggling a bit, give it a shot on a couple of sections and see how it works for you. Obviously, you still need to have a thorough understanding of the various question types and how to attack them. I hope I can help at least one of you guys
I read a post on here a couple of weeks back, where someone was recommending reading dense materials to train the brain to process text-based information. The author of the post stated that we live in a world now where we are all watching video clips and getting things broadcasted to us, and as a result it interferes with our ability to read efficiently. I couldn't agree more. Most of my incorrect answer choices on LR were due to missing a key word, or forgetting a critical idea from the passage that led me to select the "attractive" wrong answer almost every time.
I decided to read each question in pictures in my head instead of reading the words and trying to process information that way.
Basically as I read the question, each piece of information is drawn onto the blank image in my mind if you will. It helps to create characters, exaggerate scenes or actions, etc. I guess it's similar to the way Blueprint tries to teach their students. I do the same thing, just quicker, for each answer choice. For me, it has helped tremendously. I realize it may sound silly. I realize it may sound as if it's even more work. It isn't. Those of you who may find yourself struggling a bit, give it a shot on a couple of sections and see how it works for you. Obviously, you still need to have a thorough understanding of the various question types and how to attack them. I hope I can help at least one of you guys